Learning zone
Key stage 1 session

Head Start 

Touch it/Feel it - children are encouraged to touch and feel various materials used in the hat making process. They will explore how hats have evolved and developed right form the very first hat.

Using their speaking and listening skills, they will examine sheep’s wool, rabbit fur, felt hoods, wooden blocks and tools.

See it/ Hear it – children experience the might of industrial machines. They connect to the lives of people working in the past, looking at health and safety and working ‘roles’ in the factory as well as life at home in our Hatter Cottage.

Make it /keep it – children design and make their own piece of felt following a simple hands on process. They experience how materials change when mixed with other things. Lots of science, design and technology in disguise!

Wear It - Lots and lots of hats - fun, practical and symbolic - all waiting for children to try on and discover that they all have a purpose. Hats for the weather, protection, working or celebrations. Children will learn about the different roles of people in their local community.

Half day sessions: 10 am - 12 noon, up to 60 children.