Year 5 took a truly memorable step back into the Victorian era today with a thoroughly enjoyable and informative visit to the Armley Mills Industrial Museum in Leeds. Dressed in the clothing of a Victorian child, the pupils were immediately immersed in what life was like in the 1800s.

The day was filled with authentic role-play activities, offering a sharp contrast to modern school life. In the schoolroom, we quickly understood the harsh realities faced by children, many of whom had already spent a long morning working in a mill or down the mines before even setting foot in the classroom. With focused concentration, we handled our dipping pens with care, taking every measure not to “blot our copybook!”

The most impactful part of the day was experiencing the environment of the mill itself. Life in the mill was ruthless, and the unimaginable dangers faced by children became very real as we watched the original, massive machines moving back and forth across the factory floor. The sheer noise generated by even a single machine gave us a powerful indication of the deafening roar of a factory full of them.

Travelling back to our comfortable 21st-century lives certainly offered a profound time for reflection. The visit encouraged our pupils to consider the immense differences between their lives and those of a Victorian child, and to appreciate the lasting legacy the Victorian period has had on modern life, from industry to education. What a fascinating and eye-opening day! 🏭✏️