Pupils at Grenoside Community Primary School go back in time with virtual reality workshop

CHILDREN at Grenoside Community Primary School were transported back in time thanks to a unique virtual reality (VR) workshop organised by the Grenoside Parent -Teacher Association.

The session, delivered by PrimeVR, was funded by the Sheffield City Council Ward Pot Grant, to give Key Stage Two children an insight into prehistoric times and Ancient Egypt - topics linked to the national curriculum.

Virtual Reality, most commonly referred to as VR, has become globally recognised as a tool for education. The use of VR headsets in schools, immerses pupils into a virtual world beyond the classroom.

It gives children the chance to experience what it’s like in certain places of the world, different periods in history, inside the human body and even out into the Solar System and beyond.

During the day Year Three and Four children experienced what life was like 12,000 years ago during the Stone Age; learning about what foods they ate and the types of clothes they wore.

Year Five and Six students travelled to the banks of the Nile to learn all about the amazing people and places of Ancient Egypt and see Pyramids and Pharaoh’s Tomb.

Councillor Alan Hooper, who organised the funding, said: “The session was brilliant! It was like an educational school trip but without having to leave the classroom. It allowed children to experience places like no video, picture or computer could ever capture.

“The VR headsets give a sense of awe and wonder, which really helped them get them excited about the topics. I am delighted that, through the Sheffield Council Ward Pot funding, the workshop was made possible.”

After the session, teachers at the school were provided with follow up lesson plans which linked nicely with the workshop. This will allow the children to carry on their learning and complete some fantastic work, in particularly creative writing.

Speaking about the session, Year Four Teacher Jenni Monach, said: “We know that experiencing something first-hand can’t be beaten but this is not always feasible especially events from the past, which is why VR is so special.

“It brought history to life and was a fantastic learning tool for our children. We are extremely grateful to the PTA and the Council for giving us this opportunity to experience Stonehenge!”