Pupils at Cranbrook Education Campus stepped back into the 19th century as classrooms were transformed for a special “Dress Like a Victorian” day.

The immersive event supported years 5 and 6 pupils’ history learning on the Industrial Revolution, exploring the features of Victorian society and how living and working conditions changed during this period of rapid industrial growth.

Assistant headteacher Hannah Wickens launched the day fully in character, introducing strict Victorian-style classroom rules including standing when an adult enters the room, speaking only when invited, and writing with the right hand. Pupils were addressed by their surnames throughout the day, adding to the authentic feel and plenty of good-natured laughter.

Staff praised the effort put into costumes, with outfits helping to bring learning to life and spark discussion about social class, factory work, schooling and daily life in Victorian Britain.

Cranbrook Education Campus, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, delivers a broad and ambitious curriculum designed to be knowledge-rich, culturally diverse and engaging. Lessons are designed to help pupils build strong knowledge over time, ensuring they remember and apply what they have learned.

Stephen Farmer, Head of Campus at Cranbrook Education Campus, said:

“What a brilliant day, packed with learning and laughter in equal measure. From the strict Victorian classroom rules to being addressed by their surnames, pupils fully embraced the experience and made it one to remember.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said:

“Experiences like this show how powerful creative teaching can be. Bringing history to life in this way helps pupils understand the past more deeply and see how it connects to the world they live in today, well done to everyone involved in creating such a memorable day.”