Artefacts with historic tales to tell have been inspiring young minds in a pioneering initiative in Middlesbrough schools.
After a successful launch last year, Middlesbrough Museums In Your Classroom has returned to inspire more young minds.
The project – developed by Middlesbrough Museums and supported by the National Literacy Trust in Middlesbrough – sees real museum objects brought to life in the town’s schools in a drive to improve reading, writing and storytelling skills.
Museum artefacts are used to tell stories of Middlesbrough’s past, helping students to make meaningful connections with the objects and discover how the town’s history has helped shape the area they call home.
Students at Beech Grove Primary School once again drew on a treasure trove of objects from World War Two as inspiration for their own creative projects.
They used an array of pieces – from gas masks to ration books - to create posters and written works which were then showcased at a special event in the school.
Special guests – including Middlesbrough Deputy Mayor Philippa Storey and Longlands & Beechwood ward Councillor Peter Gavigan – heard first-hand from the young people about what they had learned and how they had chosen to display their creations.
Chloe Leeson, Senior Learning Officer at Middlesbrough Museums, said: “Middlesbrough Museums In Your Classroom shows how powerful local heritage can be in inspiring young people to read, write and tell stories.
“By giving children the opportunity to handle real objects and explore the stories behind them, we can spark curiosity, creativity and a stronger connection to our shared history.
“It’s been fantastic to see the pupils’ confidence and enthusiasm grow throughout the year, and we’re excited to continue developing the programme and seek opportunities so more schools can benefit in the future.”
Beech Grove Deputy Headteacher Catherine Steel-Brewster said: “This project has inspired and benefited our children in a multitude of ways.
“By being able to handle artefacts and relate to their past, they have a deeper understanding of history, especially within in our locality.
“They developed critical literacy skills when learning about propaganda and demonstrated mature oracy skills when presenting their work to the wider public.
“The impact of learning in a creative and relatable way guided by professional artists, animators and curators provided them with a rich, memorable learning experience which they will never forget, and we will always be grateful for.”
Deputy Mayor and Executive member for Education & Culture Philippa Storey said: “Middlesbrough Museums In Your Classroom is a brilliant way to bring our amazing collection to life and stimulate and inspire young minds.
“The young people at Beech Grove are a credit to their school and the town, and it’s been wonderful to see how the students engage with the artefacts and tell their stories.
“That’s great for their reading and literacy, while also helping to boost their creativity and confidence and that is simply priceless.”
Middlesbrough Museums In Your Classroom is supported by the National Literacy Trust.
For more information on Middlesbrough Museums’ educational offer, please email museumlearning@middlesbrough.gov.uk
