Workhouse Workout

When teachers at Downham Market High School wanted to demonstrate Victorian attitudes toward poverty, morality and social responsibility, they sent their students to the workhouse.

The KS3 students encountered a bygone way of life at Gressenhall, through the Roots of Norfolk programme. Costumed characters invited students to ask questions and share their opinions, creating a meaningful experience.

Stimulated by the authentic workhouse surroundings, students challenged their perceptions and formed a more balanced opinion of a complex issue. Students and teachers felt their understanding of this time period was greatly improved, which was evident in their enhanced written work: students’ assignments were at least half a level higher after the visit.

The museum has now developed a highly popular KS3 geography event.

For more information, please go to  www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk