Today, Year 3 had a fantastic opportunity to showcase their historical expertise by presenting their learning to Year 2. The children transported their audience back in time, sharing insightful details about the harsh realities of the Victorian era and the reformers who fought for change. The children shared fascinating facts about:
The Factory Acts: They explained how these new laws finally made it illegal to employ children under the age of nine and limited the gruelling hours older children could work. Lord Shaftesbury: The class spoke about his tireless work as a reformer who believed every child deserved a childhood and an education.
Ragged Schools: They described these free schools that provided food, clothing, and lessons to the most vulnerable children who couldn't afford a traditional education.
Working Conditions: The children painted a vivid picture of the dangerous health conditions in Victorian factories, from the lack of ventilation to the "scavenging" roles children often performed under moving machinery.
Whether presenting individually or in small groups, every child rose to the challenge, providing a brilliant boost for our Voice 21 initiative. It was a joy to watch them grow into confident speakers, using their oracy skills to teach others about the differences between the past and the present. Well done, Year 3.
