Museum opens the ancient world to children

Primary school students are discovering the treasures of the Antiquities Museum, thanks to a new tour scheme.

Kenmore State School students explored the museum and learned about ancient civilisations in a pilot tour in June.

Tour organiser and PhD student Sonia Puttock said high school classes had been visiting the Antiquities Museum for many years but the new concept of primary school tours was proving popular.

During the two-hour tours, primary school students handled replica artefacts and papyrus, completed worksheets on ancient languages, religions and fashions, and discussed ancient civilisations.

"We also have some real artefacts which the students handle while wearing gloves and one child gets to wear a replica of a stola, which is a Roman woman's dress," Ms Puttock said.

"The students are learning that ancient history isn't just something in books - I think the tours bring a bit of life into ancient civilisations for them.

"They tend to think of ancient civilisation as not being real, but when they see the artefacts it becomes real to them. They also realise a museum is a place where they can enjoy learning."

Antiquities Museum director Bruce Gollan said he was very pleased with the success of the initiative.

"As the only public collection of its kind in the state, our University's Antiquities Museum should be enjoyed by all Queenslanders of every age," he said.

o The Antiquities Museum, located in the Michie Building, is open to the public Monday to Friday from 9.15am to 5pm, and for primary school tours on Tuesdays and Fridays by appointment (telephone 3365 2643).