On Wednesday 19 September, Year 1 students stepped back in time during their excursion to Rouse Hill Estate. As part of their History learning, students experienced what life was like on a 19th-century farm through a range of immersive, hands-on activities.

We were so blessed that, despite threatening skies, the rain held off for most of the day, allowing students to explore the historic property and participate fully in the outdoor activities.

Students visited the beautifully preserved stables and learned about the vital role of horses in farm life. Throughout the day, they polished saddles, shifted bags of chaff, fed the chickens and sheep, pumped water, and hung washing - just like children would have done in the late 1800s.

There was plenty of excitement as students dressed in period costumes, wrote on slate boards, and even tried their hand at sewing. Their enthusiasm for the experience was evident:

• Dom P: “I loved feeding the chickens.”
• Amelia R: “I liked pretending we were the olden day kids. We got to do sewing.”
• Mackenzie B: “My group got to dress up in costumes. We got to write on slate boards.”

It was a memorable and meaningful day that truly brought History to life for our young learners.

Mrs Carmen Etherington
Stage 1 Leader