Te Manawa : Museum Gallery Science Centre

Old School Days

Students experience school life in an authentic early 1900s schoolroom with the educator in role as teacher. Using a strict disciplinary approach appropriate to the period, the teacher has the students explore the three ‘R’s: Reading Writing and Arithmetic.

School yard games can also be added to the session. Weather permitting.

Teacher Resource: pdf Old School Days (5.90MB) 

Information for Teachers
Programme Objectives:
  • Be able to compare and contrast discipline and lessons in the early 1900s with school today.
  • Investigate technological changes between the early 1900s and the present day in terms of equipment, clothing and games.
Numbers of Students:
  • Year 0-6, max 30
  • Year 7+ max 19
Class Level:
NE - Adult
Programme Duration:

1 hour

30mins of outdoor games can be added. Weather permitting

Special Requirements:
No accompanying adults are required.  Some students have difficulty coping with the discipline, and may cry.  It is preferred that the class teacher comforts the student, leaving the educator free to continue the role.
Possible Focus Topics:
  • School in the early 1900s
  • Changes of technology in schools, 1900 to today
Related Programmes:
  • Living in the Past 1800s
  • Toys and Games Through Time