A Day at the Seaside: KS1 Workshop with Jolly Good Workshop

At M7 Education, we believe in the power of immersive learning experiences to bring history to life for our students. Recently, some Key Stage 1 pupils had the delightful opportunity to participate in a special workshop led by Jolly Good Workshop, focusing on the theme of the seaside. This fun and educational session transported the children back in time to explore the fascinating history of the British seaside.

The workshop began with a comparison of the seaside as we know it today versus how it was in the past. The children learned about the evolution of seaside towns, from small fishing villages to bustling tourist destinations. They discovered how innovations in transportation, such as the advent of the railway, made seaside trips accessible to a wider population, transforming these areas into popular holiday spots.

Jolly Good Workshop captivated the students with stories about the history of the seaside. They explained why people began visiting the seaside for leisure, including the health benefits believed to be gained from sea air and seawater. The children learned about the early days when the seaside was seen as a place for health and wellness, a trend that began in the 18th century and gained momentum through the Victorian era.

The workshop also touched upon the significant impact of the Industrial Revolution on seaside holidays. With the rise of industrialisation, more people began to have the financial means and leisure time to take holidays. This era marked the beginning of the British tradition of the seaside holiday, complete with promenades, piers, and beach huts.

Entertainment has always been a key feature of the seaside experience, and the workshop highlighted several classic seaside amusements. The children learned about traditional games and activities, from sandcastle building to the thrill of riding a donkey along the beach.

No exploration of seaside history would be complete without mentioning the iconic Punch and Judy shows. The highlight of the workshop was undoubtedly watching a live Punch and Judy performance. The children were enthralled by the antics of Mr Punch, Judy, and their friends, laughing and cheering along with the traditional slapstick humour. This interactive show provided a glimpse into the past when such performances were a staple of any seaside visit.

Our recent KS1 workshop with Jolly Good Workshop was a resounding success. It not only educated the young students about the rich history of the seaside but also provided them with a memorable experience filled with laughter and learning. At M7 Education, we are committed to offering such enriching opportunities that spark curiosity and foster a love for history and culture in our students. We look forward to more such engaging workshops in the future!