Fire! Fire! Workshop Sparks Interest in the Great Fire

Children from Pre-Prep have set their imagination ablaze following an interactive workshop into the Great Fire of London.

Pre-Prep pupils from Cundall Manor School were treated to a day of activities including a 17th Century fire-fighting workshop and investigating the role of the plague doctor in 1666 London.

The workshop was led by Real History Alive’s Russell and Dawn Bark. The Derbyshire husband and wife, showcased one of their ten historical and science educational workshops to the youngsters.

Schools and museums across the country have joined in the 350th anniversary commemorations of the great fire. Dawn said: “The activities we offer are hand’s on. They get the children to immerse themselves in history and give them a feel for how it was to live in 1666.”

The day began with a 45 minute performance which introduced the Great Fire and some of the century’s celebrities including Samuel Pepys, whose memoirs helped detail the fire.

Pupils from the school had the exciting task of dressing up in clothes from the era and learning a market square dance.

Pre-Prep teacher, Kylie Potter, organised the event. She said: “The children had a great day learning all about the great fire. It was wonderful to get them dressed up and involved in the activities.”

Among the other activities enjoyed by the children included recreating medieval London through map making.