The quintessential English town of Sandwich

Year 4 trip to Sandwich.

“I’ve lived here my whole life and never knew John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, made the lunch time favourite so popular!”

So what? Why does it matter? Is our local History even important in this day and age? I could have looked it up on the internet faster! Well… try telling that to our Year 4’s who spent the day spellbound as they walked around the quintessential English town of Sandwich discovering the history behind the buildings that line the streets. Who would have thought Tom lived so close to a prison and Maisie’s house is on the banks of what was once the most important port in England. Our humble sandwich could very nearly have been Portsmouth as sandwich enthused John Montagu was given the option of being the Earl of Sandwich or Portsmouth.

Our day started with a lovely guided tour of the Sandwich Museum in which the children learnt all about how the town has changed over time. Did you know the ‘wich’ in sandwich stands for settlement that is found on the banks of a trade route? The children enjoyed exploring The Old Court House and asked some interesting questions. They were really surprised to hear that an elephant once travelled through the town on its way to London! Imagine seeing that on your way to school! After the talk our walking tour began. We took in the sights of ‘The Butts’ which the children found very amusing! If only they had bought their archery gear. Our walk then led us past Gallows Field.

“I’m glad I live in the now and not in past,” quipped Harry. Indeed, the old days and history was a times a little grim. After learning about The Manwood’s our trip reached the Quay and the welcome sanctuary of the park. After a quick sandwich and play, we were on our way through Fisher Gate and back to The Guildhall were we caught our bus back to school!

Although exhausting for some the trip was a real success and on our return to school, the classroom was brimming with enjoyment of the new knowledge the children had learnt. It was hands on learning for this outing which really helped history come to life and put events into context; a super way for our children to learn. Bravo!