This month,  Year 8 pupils visited the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley. They experienced conditions that miners endured, the restoration of a Victorian farm, authentic clothes shops, scrumptious food and school life in the 1800s. Here is what one of our pupils, Daniel, said about the trip;

“On Thursday 8th of June Year 8 went to the Black Country Living Museum, which is perhaps the best trip I have ever been on.

The highlight was the mine, which allows you to experience the horrendous conditions miners suffered. The reality for miners was shocking to discover and is unforgettable, leaving a powerful impact. Our guide was tremendously informative, and the mine features some of the best visual and audio designs I have ever been treated to a museum.

The restoration made to the Victorian farm are outstanding and make you feel as if you are from this period – shopping for scrumptious food and fashionable clothing. One shop that was particularly intriguing was a clothes shop. This is where we were introduced to some mad beliefs and views on clothing and some strange events caused by breaking these fashion laws. For instance, straw hats once caused a major bloody riot. Additional highlights are the traditional sweet shop and the bakery.

The Victorian school was perhaps the most shocking place due to what we learned – canes and punishment tortured pupils. Teachers were very influential. Pupils were embarrassed in front of their class. It created some serious food for thought.

To finish, I can only describe the Black Country Living Museum in three words. Shocking, marvellous, and unforgettable! It explores the darkness of the Industrial Revolution and makes a very powerful impact – you learn about history in the best way.“