Team DB - Whitby Trip

What a fantastic day we had touring Whitby as part of our Geography topic for this term. The children were brilliant all day long, exploring the different areas of Whitby, asking lots of questions and listening intently. Firstly, we ventured down the 199 steps to explore the centre of Whitby, visiting renowned artist John Freeman's studio. Mr Freeman was present and the children were able to observe how he painted his scenes using water colours and advising the children how to apply the technique to their own art. Mr Freeman also answered pre-prepared questions set by the children themselves and gave gifts for us to share back at Park Street.
Our next venture was to walk to the harbour, discussing the town's industry in more detail and focussing upon the human and physical geography of the area. The children were impressed at the crates that were still used by the fishermen, as well as observing the various trawlers and boats that were preent in the harbour. Some of the children also shared their experiences on previous visits to Whitby with their families. The children were amazed that the bridge would open up to allow the larger boats to pass through.
We then walked back up the 199 steps to the infamous Abbey. As we climbed higher and higher, we stopped on occasion to look back at the view of the localality. The children recognised that the buildings were built into the hillside, and looked at the different styles of homes and shops that they could see. Upon reaching the top, we carefully looked amongst the gravestones standing outside St Mary's church, and were fortunate enough to espy a wedding taking place!
It was then our turn to tour the Abbey with the Heritage tour guides. The children listened very carefully to the details about the history of the Abbey and why and how it had been built. They explored various replica artefacts, finding out about how the items would have been used. We all then had the opportunity to dress up as a Benedictine Monk, Mrs Bamforth included! We all then learn about the daily life of a Monk and how they had to be silent. The children managed to perform this task brilliantly, and were excellent at thr role! 
Travelling back over the North Yorkshire Moors, when we thought the children would have been ready for a rest, they all thoroughly enjoyed a sing-a-long on the coach. Singing and dances in their seats, all the eay back to Park Street. Thank you Team DB, you were excellent role models the entire day!