What an incredible journey our Year 1 pupils had at the Ancient Technology Centre in Cranbourne! Transported back in time to the Stone Age, they embarked on an immersive learning experience that brought history to life in the most vivid of ways.
The Stone Age
From the moment they stepped foot into this ancient world, the children were captivated by the sights, sounds, and activities that awaited them. Under the guidance of our knowledgeable hosts, Andy and Anthony, they delved into the intricacies of Stone Age life, uncovering the secrets of survival and ingenuity that defined our ancestors.
The day was filled with a myriad of hands-on activities, each designed to provide a glimpse into the daily lives of Stone Age people. From the art of flint knapping to the construction of hazel fences, our Year 1 eagerly embraced every opportunity to learn and create. Sawing and storing wood for the fire became not just a task, but a window into the resourcefulness and skill required to thrive in a world without modern conveniences.
One of the most memorable moments of the day was when our students learned about the central role of fire in Stone Age society. With excitement and determination, they worked together to create embers, experiencing firsthand the thrill of igniting flames and the warmth they brought to their surroundings. It was a moment of triumph and discovery, sparking a newfound appreciation for the fundamental technologies that shaped human history.
We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Andy and Anthony, whose passion and expertise made this experience truly unforgettable. Their dedication to education and their ability to bring the past to life left a lasting impression on our students, inspiring curiosity and wonder in equal measure.
Knowledge and Understanding
As we reflect on our time at the Ancient Technology Centre, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to step back in time and explore the world of our ancestors. It was a day of learning, laughter, and exploration, reminding us of the timeless lessons to be found in the study of history. Here’s to many more adventures in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding!
Thank you, Andy and Anthony, for guiding us on this incredible journey!
Head of Pre Prep Tracy Jane Spottiswood Said
Year One had the most fabulous trip where their activities were led by the most knowledgeable and engaging members of staff.Andy looked after us all day. He took us in workshops in hurdle making and chopping wood, using a range of tools from modern-day saws to Mesolithic and Bronze age axes. He also provided us with some artefacts to discuss and led us in the most brilliant storytelling activity.Our sessions with Anthony were no less fascinating. He showed us how to tell a good flint from a bad one by knocking it and listening for a ringing tone. He then produced a range of different stone age tools and demonstrated how they could be knapped from a core of flint. Such lithics could then be further shaped and then fastened to handles using a range of materials from wood sap glue to string made from bark.Anthony also showed us how to make a fire, using horse shoe bracket fungus, bark fibers and straw lit from the embers created by turning wood with a bow. The children watched in awe as the tiny spark became a living fire in Anthony’s hands. Definitely do not try this at home!It was an amazing day out and the children enjoyed every minute of it, not to mention Mrs Carver, Dr Woollatt and I! We will definitely plan a return visit.
The Ancient Technology Centre – Photographs
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