What would it have been like to live during this period of history? Could you survive?

Discover first hand what it was like to hunt and gather with our activities. Learn the practical skills of the time such as making hurdles and fishing nets. We will look at how important fire was and different ways
to light a fire. Learn the practical skills of the time, build a shelter and produce cave art using
natural materials. A very hands on day with team work and problem solving.

Learning Objectives

  • Identify the chronology of Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic and Iron Age.
  • Describe how early peoples made fire.
  • Create a spark with a fire striker.
  • Create a piece of cave art using natural drawing materials.
  • Describe how early people hunted and gathered.
  • Work as part of a group to create a temporary hunter-gatherer shelter.
  • Show respect for the environment and all living things in it.

Example Timetable

The course normally runs 10am – 2.30pm. There will be an approx. 30 min lunch slot, the timing will depend on the final agreed course programme.

Pre visit/prior learning

  • No prior knowledge is required. Understanding of the timeline and the chronology for Palaeolithic through to Iron Age is useful.

Welcome and Introduction

  • A group discussion on what they know about Stone Age life, the 3 time periods and showing the group artefacts.

Morning Session Focus on the Mesolithic

  • Children will be introduced to life and resources in the Mesolithic times.
  • In groups they will build an A frame using natural materials and rope to carry their belongings.
  • In groups, they will build a Mesolithic shelter.
  • Children will hunt a Mammoth using role play.
  • Using natural materials, the children will create their own cave art.

Afternoon Session Focus on the Neolithic - transition to farming and the Iron Age.

  • The children will be divided into 3 groups to take part in a rotation of 3 activities.
    - Fire lighting and the importance of fire- children will use fire strikers to make sparks and fire (this activity is subject to weather conditions).
    - Hunting and gathering – using throwing sticks and gathering food game.
    - Willow weaving, making fishing nets and grinding seeds.
    - Discussion to evaluate the session and what skills were needed in the Stone Age.

Depart

Future learning/follow up

  • Children will be able to discuss their first-hand learning experiences. They can use these experiences for creative writing, displays and posters.

How this course fulfills the specification

Key Stage 2, History

  • Changes in Britain from Stone Age to Iron Age

Key Stage 2, Design and Technology

  • Build structures, exploring how they can be made stronger, stiffer and more stable.

Added value of this course

  • Develop personal skills
  • Have fun
  • Be inspired by a passion for the subject
  • Build friendships

Related Information

Customer Information
Details of how to book, terms and conditions, policies and procedures, including risk assessments, can be found on our website here.

Variation
The outline shown is indicative. Whilst we do our best to deliver the agreed programme, we sometimes must change the programme due to for example, weather, access to sites, or staffing issues. Most changes are insignificant and will not affect your trip.

Liaison
This programme is designed to meet the curriculum/specification requirements.
Prior to your visit, one of the Tutors leading your group will be in touch via email. This is an opportunity for us to find out more about the group and to make small adjustments to meet your groups needs.

Tuition
Tuition is delivered by Field Studies Council Tutors, with an expert knowledge of the subject and fieldwork locations, and a passion for the subject being taught. The education team are DBS checked, and undergo regular training including in first aid, water safety and risk assessments.

Transport
There is no requirement for transport during the day. All activities take place on site or within walking distance.

Teaching groups
Your group will be divided into an agreed number of taught groups at the point of booking. This may not match your normal classes. Please subdivide the taught group into subgroups in advance of your visit, discuss with the tutor at liaison how many subgroups are required.

Teachers and supporting adults
The school should provide teachers and support staff, or parents, to meet minimum ratios per teaching group. Teachers and adults are expected to participate and support the student's learning. Teachers are expected to manage behaviour & support group management, and to supervise break and lunch times.

What to bring
A kit list can be found on our website here. Please adjust this based on the weather conditions. Ensure the group bring lunch and plenty to drink.

Clothing and footwear
Appropriate outdoor clothing (and waterproofs) should be worn, taking into account the weather forecast. The group will be outside most of the day, even in wet weather. It is advised that long trousers are worn, even on sunny days due to the presence of ticks. We advise wearing sensible footwear – trainers or walking boots that can get muddy.

 

Why Choose Field Studies Council?

  • Expert tuition by fully trained staff

  • Stunning locations across the UK

  • Outstanding curriculum knowledge

  • Rigorous health and safety procedures

  • Support before and after your visit

  • Free places for visiting staff