ROPE MAKING DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY CHALLENGE
Make or Break
This guided exploration of the Victorian rope-laying floor, Hemp House and Test House highlights the science and technology of the rope making process that has developed over the last 400 years. Student ‘apprentices’ participate in the rope making process using our specially designed model followed by a visit to the longest brick building in Europe where rope is still made in the traditional way. After investigating some of the product designs currently sold by our rope making company Master Rope makers and working to their given design brief, teams of pupils are tasked with creating an inventive and practical design for a new product incorporating rope. Which team will produce the most imaginative and commercial design? Each pupil will be given an individual rope sample to take away with them.
Curriculum links: Design and Technology, Physics (Motion and Forces)
CHEMICAL CANNON FIRING
Gun Deck Challenge
Straight off the gun deck of an 18th century warship, the students use their knowledge of chemistry and laboratory practice to create the perfect propellant, then launch a ball bearing from their chemical cannon to outgun the other gun crews.
Curriculum links: Working Scientifically, Chemistry (Chemical Reactions)
PHYSICS UNDER PRESSURE
Rocket Squad
Students compete to develop their own accurate missiles using Newton’s Laws and principles of aerodynamics to destroy a target. This lively activity is inspired by the Sea Cat missiles on board HMS CAVALIER. Nothing beats the satisfying sound of a direct hit!
Curriculum links: Working Scientifically, Physics (Motion and forces)
SHIP BUILDING CHALLENGE
Full Speed Ahead
Stimulated by the National Maritime Museum model collection, teams of students compete to construct and test prototype hull shapes and propulsion systems against their peers. Facing the challenge of the tow tank wind and wave machine, students realise what a difference the knowledge of naval architecture makes to the performance of a ship.
Curriculum links: Working Scientifically, Physics (Motion and Forces), Design and Technology
Year group VISITS
For those groups looking for a less curriculum-focused day out, The Historic Dockyard offers the perfect place for a group of any size as we can easily accommodate even whole Secondary year groups. The site has a wide variety of galleries and attractions, with experiences to appeal to all members of a cohort.
