Primary

We invite schools to discover the story of Witney and the industry that made it world-famous. Through this interactive workshop, students are introduced to the town’s history and the trade that shaped it.

Witney’s Got Wool

Students will exploring the fascinating journey from raw wool to finished blanket using handling objects and materials to understand the different stages of blanket making; from raw wool to carding and spinning to weaving and finishing. They’ll discover what life was like for the men, women and children who worked in Witney’s mills, and why blankets became such an important part of the town’s identity.

There’s also the chance to get hands-on where students can test out their own weaving skills and experience the processes that sustained generations of Witney families.

How has Witney’s past shaped the town we know today and how are we shaping its future?

Booking Information

Availability
We run our school sessions on Tuesdays when the museum is closed to the public.

If you would like to visit on a different day, please email admin@witneymuseum.org.uk to discuss availability and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Duration: 60 minutes

Capacity: Up to 30 students

Price: £50 per session

Learning Objectives

Develop an understanding of Witney’s history and why the blanket industry was important to the town.
Explore the journey from raw wool to finished blanket using real objects and materials.
Use hands-on weaving techniques to understand traditional craft and industrial processes.

National Curriculum Links:

Key Stage 1 History:

Pupils should develop an awareness of the past, using common words and phrases relating to the passing of time.
Pupils should identify similarities and differences between ways of life in different periods.
A local history study: learning about Witney and its blanket-making heritage.

Key Stage 2 History:

A local history study: exploring Witney’s blanket industry and its impact on the town.
A study of an aspect or theme in British history beyond 1066, considering industry, work, and social change.
Understand how historical events and lives of people have shaped the present.