What was life like for most children during the Victorian era? - Presentation

The Victorian era, a period of great contrasts in the lives of children, is explored in an educational presentation aimed at helping children understand the stark differences between their own lives and those of their counterparts from the past. Teachers are encouraged to utilise photographs to give students a vivid glimpse into the experiences of Victorian children, particularly those who had to work. The teaching materials highlight the fact that children from wealthier families led very different lives compared to those from less affluent backgrounds. The lesson plan suggests discussing the types of work Victorian children undertook and how today's children would feel about doing similar jobs. It also touches upon the educational aspect of the era, noting that a significant number of children, about one in three, did not attend school at all. Through these insights, students are prompted to consider the lasting impact of the Victorians on contemporary life.

As part of the learning process, students examine photographs depicting Victorian children at work and engage in discussions about the various jobs depicted. They are encouraged to consider which jobs they might prefer or dislike. Additionally, the presentation includes an activity where students listen to stories of Victorian children's workdays and compile a list of five key points about the life of a working Victorian child. The exploration of the Victorian era extends to school life, where students watch related content and then create diary entries to be placed in a time capsule, leaving a piece of history for future generations. The presentation also covers the strict and often harsh educational environment of Victorian schools, with facts about teaching methods, classroom settings, and disciplinary practices. This historical context sets the stage for students to create a Victorian Challenge game, further solidifying their understanding of the period.