RAMM workshops a hit with schools
The RAMM's award winning school workshops are being delivered at schools throughout the county while the Museum is closed for refurbishment.
They're proving a big hit so early booking is essential. The workshops are linked to the National Curriculum and recreate authentic and gripping Museum experiences bringing World War II, the Romans, the Egyptians, the Great Fire of London and Art vividly to life.
In the World War II workshops, Museum Learning Officers arrive as an Air Raid Precaution (ARP) Warden and an Exeter City Police Officer dressed in 1940's clothes and complete with mandatory gas masks. The children learn about the contributions that Devon and Exeter children could make to Britain's war effort. They learn about Morse code, air drops and life on the Home Front. They are able to explore topics such as rationing, tough omelettes made from dried eggs, treasured finds such as silk parachutes made into dresses, endlessly patched and darned clothes, the rare luxury of silk stockings, as well as air raids, the care of the injured and the dangers of unexploded bombs.
The young ARP helpers in each school are eagerly engaged throughout a day of thinking, empathy, collaboration and the active use of RAMM's collections. The workshops leave a lasting impression on the children "I don't ever want to be in a war" reports one.
Art Angle Out boxes containing the original work of five commissioned artists, schemes of work and support notes can also be loaned by schools complete with an introductory and an evaluation sessions, by a Museum Learning Officer. After a session at Kingsteignton, the class teacher remarked: "The project was really well paced and presented. The children have experimented with different methods, discussed what they liked and disliked about pieces of artwork and acted upon their feelings. I was delighted with the work produced and in particular the originality and uniqueness each child managed to express, from the identical preliminary stimulation."
For further information contact the Education Administrator on 01392 5963.
