We are delighted to announce the launch of Sensing the Archives, a new workshop at The National Archives designed specifically for students who are blind and visually impaired.
This innovative workshop features specially designed 3D-printed versions of historic documents from The National Archives’ collection, including a medieval map and a wage slip for Tudor courtier John Blanke.
These tactile resources allow students to explore history through touch, with raised surfaces that can reproduce features such as churches, houses, moorland and even the position of troops lined up for battle. They can also represent the signatures of significant historic figures, including kings and queens.
Workshops are available for students from Key Stage I up to Key Stage 5. Supporting materials are provided in large print and/or Braille (grade 1 or 2) according to student needs. To make the workshop accessible to all, a bursary is available for schools to help cover travel and teacher costs. Further information about the workshops can be found on The National Archives’ website.
Sensing the Archives is supported by the Friends of The National Archives and The National Archives Trust, with the Trust’s support made possible through the generosity of the Powell Family Foundation, the Edith Murphy Foundation and the Spectacle Makers’ Charity.
Initiatives like Sensing the Archives are only possible through philanthropic support. To help us make archives more accessible for schools and young people, please click here to donate online.
