The use of fire as a major influence in the development of mankind is being explored by children at Upton Junior in Broadstairs.

They are finding out how it was critical evolutionary tool to provide a source of warmth and lighting, protection from predators and a method of cooking food.

To bring their studies to life the Year 3 group embarked on a hands-on project to write instructions to create a Stone Age fire.

Each child carefully thought about the steps and materials needed, visualising what it would take to start a fire using only the resources available in prehistoric times.

With their fire-making instructions written and ready, the pupils headed on to the playing fields to put them into action with Upton’s Forest School leader Callum Noble.

Following their instructions step-by-step, Mr Noble began to make a fire. Once they had seen how to get the flames roaring, the children gathered around for a delicious finale. Each of them had a marshmallow on a stick, ready to be toasted.

The learning experience is part of the group’s Pre-History Rocks topic that looks at life in the Stone Age, Bronze Age and Iron Age.

Exploring life thousands of years ago, they've learned about how early humans survived, the tools they used, and how each age brought new advancements. To make history come alive, their English lessons have even been woven into this prehistoric theme, bringing a unique twist to their reading and writing.

As part of their English studies, they read Stone Age Boy by Satoshi Kitamura about a modern boy transported back to the Stone Age, providing a vivid window into the everyday lives of our ancient ancestors.

Through this tale the children learnt not only about survival skills but also about the community spirit and resourcefulness that marked the Stone Age era.

Head of Year 3 Becky Andrews said: “The experience was a perfect blend of history, science, and hands-on fun.

“Through reading, writing, and active participation, the children got a taste of what it might have been like to survive and thrive in a world long before the conveniences of modern life – and the marshmallows added just the right amount of sweetness to their Stone Age adventure.

“This topic has not only sparked their curiosity about the past but also connected them to the world of today—showing just how far humanity has come and how much we still have to learn from those who came before us.”

Head of School Darci Arthur who joined the Year 3 group in the outdoors said: “This was a great exercise in reinforcing lessons learnt in class by expanding the experience and taking it in to nature and seeing the information they have gathered work in reality. “

Upton Junior School is part of the Viking Academy Trust with Chilton Primary School and Ramsgate Arts Primary School.

*For more information contact Head of School Darci Arthur on 01843 861393.