
Aislinn Masterson, student also reflected on the experience: “I really enjoyed the trip to Beamish. It was great to explore the different facilities and grasp a better understanding of how and why language and society have changed through time in the UK, and also in regards to regional features of accent.”
The visit was a fantastic opportunity for students to bring their studies to life, gaining a hands-on appreciation for the historical and social influences that have shaped the English language.
First-year A-Level English Language students had an enriching and immersive experience at Beamish Museum, where they explored historical texts, delved into the pitmatic dialect, and discovered how literacy was taught in the early 1900s.
The trip provided students with a unique opportunity to engage with the evolution of language and its connection to culture, industry, and daily life in the past.
Grace Shield, one of the students on the trip, shared her thoughts: “My trip to Beamish helped me to gain a deeper understanding of language throughout different time periods and the influences that changed the way we speak. It was fascinating to learn about the history behind not only our language but our culture, lifestyle, and working industries, for example, the mining industry. The trip was lots of fun, and I learned some amazing things!”
