Ian Cooper
25 March, 2025
Schools

Pupils making their knowledge rock solid

Pupils from Elton C. of E. Primary School, near Matlock, expanded their topic knowledge as they enjoyed a day at The National Stone Centre, near Wirksworth.

Pupils learning about the landscape.


They started off being soil detectives before taking a guided walk to learn about the landscape around the site. They spotted different fossils, dry stone walls from across the country and shouted, "Echo!" at a rock face. It did come bouncing back!


Soil detectives at work.
Soil detectives at work. Credit: Elton C. Of E. Primary School

Learning that the area was once a lagoon was fascinating. The Head teacher, said, "This really helped to embed the work they've done in school and there was plenty of opportunity to relate their understanding to the local environment and make the topic work real. They enjoyed sharing everything they'd learnt in class."


A collection of different rocks became a bit of a puzzle as they worked on their rock detective skills. They then finished the day with their favourite activity, a spot of gem panning.

Panning for colourful gems and gold.
Panning for colourful gems and gold. Credit: Elton C. Of E. Primary School


At the end of the day there were tired legs but plenty of smiles.