Essential information

Location
Key Stage
Early Years Foundation Stage
Curriculum links
Art
Communication
Session length 60 minutes
Session times Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 10.15-11.15, 12:30-13:30
Capacity 30 pupils per group
Price Up to 30 pupils - £150

Session overview

Introduction

The facilitator introduces Cutty Sark and its location. They then teach the first song and collaborate with learners on developing a magic movement that will help them go back in time. Some sailor terminology is covered, so learners are prepared to board the ship to explore life as a Victorian sailor. 

Guided tour

Learners go on a tour around the ship with the facilitator, who will teach new songs throughout the journey. The songs help to tell some of the stories of Cutty Sark and allow the learners to offer their own ideas and movements.

Learning objectives

Learners will:

  • Explore the life of a 19th-century sailor on board Cutty Sark through storytelling, shanty singing and games
  • Develop their communication skills through guided conversations/discussions
  • Develop social skills and confidence through performance, play and improvising

Curriculum links

Communication and Language

  • Through conversation, storytelling and role play, children share their ideas with support and modelling from their teacher 

Physical Development

  • By creating games and providing opportunities for play both indoors and outdoors, adults can support children to develop their core strength, stability, balance, spatial awareness, co-ordination and agility

Understanding the World

  • The frequency and range of children’s personal experiences increase their knowledge and sense of the world around them

Key words

Cutty Sark, tea, China, sailing, sailor, sea shanty, starboard, port, bow, stern

Suggested pre-visit knowledge and activities

Find out what a sailing ship is and how it works. 

Draw a picture of you as a sailor on board a ship. 

Read stories featuring ships and sailing, such as 'Brilliant Boats' by Tony Mitton and Ant Parker.

Suggested post-visit knowledge and activities

Practice the songs from the session and add movements.

Draw a picture of you as a sailor on board a ship – is it different to the picture you drew before your visit? What are the differences?