[A] student teacher, on a university teaching placement at Shankhill CofE Primary School, is impressing pupils and staff alike with her innovative and imaginative history classes, bringing Viking history to life.
Jade Lightfoot, 23, a third year General Primary Education QTS student from the University of Cumbria, is currently teaching pupils about the Vikings and this week is set to construct a 3D replica Viking longboat in the school’s playground.
With guidance from Jade, years 3-6 pupils designed the boat, took measurements, ordered the materials, considered transport options and will construct the boat on Wednesday 7 June at 1.30pm with help from their parents along with construction company Northern Construction, who supplied the materials.
The longboat is divided into several sections and once constructed will measure over 3.5m long and will be large enough to sit all 18 pupils who designed it. The children have been the accountants, calculating the costs of the project during their maths lessons.
Jade used the Viking theme across several curriculum subject areas – making painted wooden shields while researching the symbolism of colours used. Organised a Viking day where the children learnt about their religion and customs, which involved drama and role play and the children will even get the chance to row in a replica longboat later this month.
Jade is on the final 10-week placement of her degree course. She said, “Shankhill has given me far more freedom than I ever expected allowing me to explore the Vikings theme over several weeks and subject areas including art, history and maths rather than concentrating on it for just one afternoon. Taking the measurements for the boat has taught the children really useful real-life maths skills, which they’ll be able to apply now and in the future.”
Lynnsey Batey is head teacher at Shankhill CofE Primary School said of Jade’s placement, “Jade started at the school quietly confident but she has really blossomed while on placement with us, bringing energy and enthusiasm which has seen her forge a place for herself in the hearts of pupils, parents and staff.”
“Over the last few years, we have welcomed several students on placement from the university and each and every one of them has been brilliant. They bring their own unique personalities and perspectives to Shankhill, enriching the learning environment for our pupils.”
