History Trip to Petersfield Museum
All of our First Year students recently had the exciting opportunity to step outside their usual classroom environment and immerse themselves in local history at Petersfield Museum. This enriching field trip offered a dynamic alternative to their regular history lessons, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm among the students.
During their visit, the students delved into a variety of fascinating topics that brought the town’s past vividly to life. One highlight was exploring the history of the local police force. The students were captivated by stories of law enforcement in earlier times and even got a hands-on experience by trying out the old police cells—much to their amusement!
The journey into the past continued with tales of the perilous road to London, once notorious for being plagued by highwaymen.
The museum visit also shed light on the important role cricket has played in Petersfield’s community life. Students discovered how the sport became a central part of the town’s identity, fostering a sense of unity and pride among its residents.
Another intriguing aspect of the trip was learning about Petersfield’s political history. For over 150 years, the town was known as a "rotten borough," a term used to describe parliamentary constituencies with very few voters that could be easily manipulated. This sparked lively discussions among the students about fairness and representation in government, connecting local history to broader themes they’ve studied in class.
To make the experience even more memorable, the students had the chance to dress up in period costumes, stepping into the shoes of historical figures from Petersfield’s past.
The journey into the past continued with tales of the perilous road to London, once notorious for being plagued by highwaymen. Students were enthralled by stories of these infamous outlaws and the dangers travelers faced, adding a sense of adventure and drama to their historical exploration.
To make the experience even more memorable, the students had the chance to dress up in period costumes, stepping into the shoes of historical figures from Petersfield’s past. The museum’s education department provided an engaging and interactive recap session, helping the students consolidate everything they had learned throughout the day.
Overall, the trip to Petersfield Museum proved to be both educational and enjoyable. It not only deepened the students’ understanding of their local heritage but also ignited a lasting interest in the rich tapestry of history that surrounds them.
