Accessibility

We are based in the former Victoria Primary School building in Newhaven. The oldest part was built in 1844 and it had many additions over the years. It is built over three floors with three stone access stairs and an atrium with a balcony. At present there is no lift access to the upper floors. There is an accessible toilet on the ground floor and gender-neutral toilets.
The building is home to many different groups and is a busy hub of activity. We try to respect everyone’s workspace and move quietly through the building, especially when arriving and leaving.

Visiting the Victorian Schoolroom

When booking a visit, it is helpful for the volunteers to know if there are any ASN pupils in the group. We can adjust our lessons appropriately.
Entry is by a narrow lane to the west of the main playground.
You will be met by volunteers from HEC.
Climb the stone stairs to the first-floor corridors of The Victorian Schoolroom.
There are separate boys’/girls’ cloakrooms to leave bags, snacks etc. Boys and girls are asked to wear costumes.
Boys wear a shirt with a waistcoat over. Girls wear a pinafore. Costumes are worn over their clothes. All children are encouraged to wear costumes, but it is not entirely necessary.
Introduction to the Victorians by the role-play teacher. The teacher will become very strict and stern. The teacher will explain that we are all acting out roles as if in Victorian times.
A loud school handbell is rung at the start of the class. A warning will be given.
In the classroom the teacher will be strict and will expect good behaviour.
The belt, although not used on visitors, is demonstrated by hitting on a bench or desk. That can be loud and frightening for some people. We demonstrate “punishments” for bad behaviour.
We use split nib pens and ink. This can cause upset especially if there are spillages on desks, paper, clothes or hands.
We chant multiplication tables together, out loud.

Visiting the Home Life Museum

• The pupils sit on the carpet in front of the kitchen range.
• There is a lot of handling and interaction with the objects. A lot of the objects are heavy.
• This is a more relaxed area where we chat and interact informally with the pupils.

If you have a specific question, please contact our administrator.