Kindergarten and T1 recently embarked on a scientific adventure at the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences in Cambridge. Immersed in 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history, the children explored the wonders of palaeontology, geology and evolution through hands-on activities and awe-inspiring exhibits.
The session began with a lively investigation into dinosaur dentition. The children hunted for the biggest teeth they could find in the museum’s fossil displays, comparing the sharp, pointed teeth of carnivores with the flatter, grinding teeth of herbivores.
The meat-eaters had scary teeth but the plant-eaters had teeth like spoons.
One of the most memorable moments came when the children gathered around a life-sized T. rex footprint and tried to work out how many of them could fit inside it.
“Five of us could stand in it!” exclaimed Florence (YR1). “It’s like a dinosaur stomped right here.”
The children delved deeper into the museum’s fossil collection, learning more about the iconic Iguanodon and Tyrannosaurus rex specimens. They examined skeletal structures, discussed how fossils form, and considered what these ancient creatures might have looked and behaved like.
I think the Iguanodon was gentle but the T. rex was the boss of the dinosaurs!
The children also paused beside a plaque honouring Sir David Attenborough, whose legacy as a natural historian and advocate for the planet resonated deeply. Throughout the visit, pupils demonstrated curiosity, empathy and thoughtful engagement.
The museum brought their learning to life in such a powerful way.
The Sedgwick Museum visit was a vivid reminder of the power of experiential learning. By walking in the footsteps of giants, both prehistoric and human, the children took their first steps into a lifelong journey of discovery, wonder and scientific thinking.
