Step Back in Time: Year 5 Uncover Ancient Greece Through Clay!

This term, Year 5 have been stepping into the shoes of archaeologists as we explore the captivating world of Ancient Greece!

Our journey began in history, where we turned detective to study ancient Greek pottery. As a primary source of information, these decorated vessels offered us a direct window into the past. By examining the detailed illustrations on ancient urns, amphorae, and kraters, the children inferred key details about everyday life, mythology, religious rituals, and heroics from thousands of years ago.

Inspired by what they uncovered, the children set to work designing their very own pottery, carefully planning how to weave historical details into their creations.

Then came the hands-on fun in DT! The classroom transformed into a buzzing pottery workshop as the children learned the tactile arts of shaping, moulding, and sculpting clay. They mastered essential ceramics techniques: using water to smooth and manipulate the clay, carefully pulling and attaching sturdy handles, and shaping their designs into a wonderful variety of forms—from wide bowls to tall pots, some complete with custom lids and handles.

The creativity and craft on display have been truly fantastic—no two pieces are alike!

'I really like mine, it took a while to make it tall to look like the Greek vase.' Bella 

'We used water to smooth out the lines in the clay smoothing the edges.' - Ivan 

What’s Next? Our potters aren't quite finished yet! In our upcoming lessons, the children will bring their vessels to life by painting detailed scenes inspired by the Ancient Olympic Games, mirroring the black-figure and red-figure styles of original Greek pottery.