Wimborne’s Museum of East Dorset has welcomed a familiar face as its new Learning and Family Assistant. Rachel Simpson-Fernandes, with over a decade of teaching experience in primary and special education needs (SEN), has joined the community-focused museum to inspire local schoolchildren through hands-on history.
Rachel, who is passionate about both teaching and history, says, ‘I couldn’t believe my luck – teaching and museums! Two of my favourite things – the perfect role for me that combines creativity and practical skills.’
Her role will involve co-ordinating school visits from across the county, offering themed workshops that cover 2,000 years of British history. The sessions give children the chance to find out about life as a Roman, for example … or as a scullery maid in the Victorian washroom.
“I remember coming to the museum when I was at school,’ says rachael. ‘It’s changed so much since then: no boring questionnaires here! It’s wonderful to play a part in moving the museum forward, offering even more activities for schoolchildren.’
The museum, which has earned the Sandford Award for heritage learning seven times, also offers a Hands-On History loan programme, making its resources accessible to schools nationwide. Now, Rachel is calling on locals to get involved as learning volunteers: ‘You don’t need experience,’ she says. ‘Training and mentoring is provided, and every session has a detailed delivery plan that is easy to follow. All we need is people with a passion for history, who love the magic of museums and how they enrich children’s lives. And if you fancy dressing up as a Victorian housekeeper or Roman soldier – even better!’
If you’d like to learn more, contact Rachel on learning@museumofeastdorset.co.uk.
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