An Ancient Greek Invasion!
Brad Pitt, look out! Ongar Place Primary School in Addlestone was the scene of an Ancient Greek invasion. Dressed in chitons, armed with swords, helmets and shields, young Athenian and Spartan soldiers marched out into the playground. Young David, holding aloft a lighted torch, officially declared the opening of the Greek games. The children participated in a range of Olympic inspired activities such as sprinting, discus, javelin and the marathon.
The Learning Officer from Elmbridge Museum, located in Weybridge, has spent the last term working with staff from Ongar Place. Together they have developed activities for years three and four students. The children were introduced to the Greeks by handling replica Greek objects from a newly created Discovery Box. They went on to make a selection of military equipment then theatre masks as well as study Ancient Greek mathematics.
The children also made Greek chariot models. A full-size model constructed by Phil Savage proved very popular, allowing all the chance to ride around the playground Greek style. Everyone was also treated to a selection of Greek food.
Mrs. Gloria Liddaman, Head Teacher of Ongar Place Primary, who was thrilled with the experience, said: "Working with Elmbridge Museum has been inspirational. With our recent change in status from an infants to a primary school the chance to develop the curriculum and engage our pupils in such a memorable way has been a fantastic experience for us all."
|Councillor Jan Fuller, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Cultural Services, said: "This is a wonderful example of how Elmbridge Museum brings history to life. The opportunity to work in partnership with Ongar Place Primary School has benefited both groups. The resulting Discovery Box is a resource that can now be used by Elmbridge schools to learn about the Ancient Greeks. With London 2012 fast approaching, the Ancient Greeks and their Olympic legacy will prove to be a popular topic."
The Ancient Greek Discovery Box will be available for loan from Elmbridge Museum in the New Year. If you are interested in renting it or would like further information on any of the range of learning services offered, please |contact the Elmbridge Museum Learning Officer.
Last Updated: 20/11/2009 16:21:14
