On Wednesday 13th January, our whole school took part in an ‘architecture afternoon’. Children from Reception to Year 6 were able to experience the exciting world of architecture through a range of different activities.
The afternoon composed of two parts: a lesson centred around a famous architect and a building task.
In EYFS and Key Stage 1, the children learnt about Antoni Gaudi, a man famous for his intricate, one-of-a-kind style and ‘trencadis’ style of mosaic tiling. In Lower Key Stage 2, children learnt about Sir Christopher Wren, known for designing St Paul’s Cathedral in his classic English Baroque style. Upper Key Stage 2 were given a more contemporary architect, looking at the work of Zaha Hadid AKA ‘Queen of the curve’. Each class used their given architect as inspiration for their own unique artwork.
The second part of the afternoon was a building challenge. Children experienced how maths and science both play a part when designing and creating buildings and formations. Children were given a series of building challenges and very basic materials to complete them with (thank you for the newspaper donations!). They aimed to use architects’ techniques to create strong structures.
The aim of the day was to display how many professions require expertise in a vast array of areas. Children were able to experience how knowledge of art, science and maths are all fundamental to an architect. Children were able to learn about key figures in the world of architecture, as well as discuss how they reflect and shape our history, and contribute to the culture, creativity and wealth of our nation.
It was an amazing experience for all ages, as you can see in the pictures below!
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