SCHOOLCHILDREN in Gwent can now enjoy a new way of learning while on their historical visits thanks to a new programme.

Newly-launched activities at Blaenavon Ironworks include an interactive guided tour by a costumed worker, with pupils treated as new employees and shown various workplaces in the Ironworks, with explanations of the jobs they would do at each location. In addition, there are specially designed activities in the company shop and discovery stations.

Developed by Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, the programme is designed to tie into the Welsh National Literacy and Numeracy Frameworks.

It features new site-specific resources for self-led visits and costumed facilitated visits at sites including at Blaenavon Heritage Centre.

As part of its focus on education, Cadw has also introduced free online resources for teachers, providing information and ideas for activities for use before, during and after the education visits which tie in with school curricula.

Ken Skates, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, said: “This is an excellent example of how the historic environment can be used to enhance the education experience for young people in Wales.

“Our heritage monuments are assets that should not only be protected, but should also be enjoyed, explored and questioned.

“Through learning about the significance of our historic buildings and sharing the stories they hold we are helping to create future custodians of our heritage.”

The activities are set to complement the existing KS2 & KS3 programmes already on offer at Cadw sites across Wales.

Sue Mason, head of lifelong learning for Cadw, said: “These exciting new education activities and resources aim to bring the fascinating stories behind our historic buildings and the characters who lived in them to life as a way of engaging pupils with their local heritage, and to support the teaching of subjects such as history alongside numeracy and literacy skills and the curriculum Cymreig.

“Learning at site gives pupils the chance to be transported back to a period in history making it a living lesson.

“Authentic experiences aid not just their understanding of a subject but also their retention of information.”

Walk with a Worker tours at Blaenavon Ironworks and Blaenavon Heritage Centre must be booked in advance. The half-day activities cost £90 per group, for up to 30 pupils.

For more information about school visits or to download education resources, visit www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/learning.