Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution is being explored by children at Upton Junior School in Broadstairs.

Visiting the acclaimed Powell Cotton natural history museum at Quex in Birchington has given the Year 6 group a real hands-on approach to learning.

Investigating the collections, dioramas and world culture objects linked into their topic work studying the life of Darwin and his work on The Origin of the Species.

Head of School Darci Arthur added: “This is a fascinating learning adventure and we are so fortunate to have the excellent resources of such an acclaimed natural history museum on our doorstep. It is a fantastic asset.”

Year 6 teacher Stevie Bunce said: “Our pupils loved exploring the museum and sketching the diorama scenes that have been so carefully crafted by the museum curators.

“The children particularly enjoyed ‘Gallery 6’, a space where anyone can come and use the objects for study, creativity, or play.

“They loved handling the artefacts, inspecting them under a microscope and sketching them. They also enjoyed exploring the various masks, dressing up clothes and instruments this room had to offer.”

During the topic the year group is looking at how objects are categorised as part of their work involving evolution and inheritance.

They are investigating the idea that broad groupings, such as micro-organisms, plants and animals, can be sub-divided. They are discussing reasons why species are placed in one group and not another, recognising that living things produce offspring of the same kind, but understood that normally offspring vary and are not identical to their parents.

Natural selection and how animals and plants are adapted to suit their environment in different ways and that adaptation may lead to evolution is also part of their learning.

Upton Junior School is part of the Viking Academy Trust with Chilton Primary School and Ramsgate Arts Primary School.

*For more information contact Head of School Darci Arthur on 01843 861393