“They’re a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn”: school thrilled with Fishing Heritage Centre in a box

The Heritage Centre in a box includes the sights, sounds and even smells of the era whilst providing a unique opportunity for classes to learn about Grimsby’s fishing industry.

In the box are a range of objects, prints of related artworks that tell the story of life as a trawlerman in the 1950s.

Recently, Cleethorpes school Elliston Primary Academy have used the box as part of their history classes. Speaking about their experience was teacher Paul Tarrant.

He said: “We used the boxes for our history unit  - The rise and fall of the fishing industry. We used the box to show the equipment that fishermen had when aboard the trawlers and to show what kind of things they might spend their money on. It gave the children a fantastic opportunity to understand the era in question more clearly.

“The class loved getting their hands on physical objects instead of just seeing images on screens, it really supported their learning.”

He added: “I would 100% recommend the boxes to other schools - and have! It made the lessons more interactive and children who have struggled to access this sort of learning historically were able to make more progress.

“It also assisted with their understanding as they were able to physically handle and discuss the objects.”

If you’re interested in using a loan box, email sarah.spencer@nelincs.gov.uk for more information.

Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre is also home to the Ross Tiger, a 1950s Grimsby trawler. With 35 skippers during its time at sea, the vessel is a lasting reminder of Grimsby’s fishing legacy.

Whilst visiting the centre, why not check out the Galley Café and treat yourself to a bacon bun or slice of cake and coffee.

After getting your fill of fishing history and cake, don’t forget to visit the Rambles in Lincolnshire exhibition in the Muriel Baker gallery where nearly 100 vintage rail posters of Lincolnshire are on display.

To stay up to date with events and news about the Fishing Heritage Centre, make sure you sign up to the newsletter by visiting Newsletter - Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre