Education Packs

The Archaeology Education Pack includes lessons on topographic maps, how to carry out an archaeological dig, and why Portland Viaduct is such an important example of built heritage. There are lesson overviews, teacher's notes and teacher's slides below to download. 

The History of the Mills Education Pack includes lessons on the area's historic mills that once produced yarn and textiles around Sutton in Ashfield and Mansfield. Pupils will learn how the mills were converted from flour milling to cotton manufacture, the significance of the reservoir to industrial heritage, and the harsh conditions for children who worked in the mills.

The Mansfield and Pinxton Railway Education Pack helps pupils gain an insight into why the Mansfield and Pinxton Railway line was created in 1819 within the context of the Industrial Revolution. They will learn about the various minerals quarried in the Mansfield area and transported further afield via the railway, and understand the basic rail track designs common in the early 19th century.

The Social Unrest Education Pack will help pupils gain an understanding of Mill Waters’ history in relation to social unrest in the 1800s to help gain a better understanding of modern-day society and politics. They will learn about the Luddites and Chartist movement and form an opinion on the differing opinions during the time.

The Water Wheels Education Pack is where pupils will gain an understanding of how water wheels powered the mills, finding out about the site’s history and mill use, and learn the scientific terms related to water wheels and the engineering processes behind how they worked.

The Wildlife Education Pack is where pupils will learn what reservoirs are for and how they are valuable, even when they no longer serve their original purpose. They will also discover the pH of King’s Mill Reservoir, discover the complex food network at Mill Waters, and how the site provides a haven for a number of threatened wildlife species. Pupils will learn about the importance of wildflowers to attract pollinators, which are vital for food production and the wider ecosystem.