Year 11 History: Medicine Trip
Year 11 History Students Explore the Past at the Old Operating Theatre and Medicine Galleries
In October, our Year 11 History students embarked on a memorable trip to two fascinating historical sites: the Old Operating Theatre and the Medicine Galleries at the Science Museum. The experience brought their GCSE history curriculum to life, deepening their understanding of the evolution of medicine and surgical practices.
At the Old Operating Theatre, students stepped back in time to the Victorian era. In this historic setting—the oldest surviving operating theatre in Europe—they learned about surgery in a time before anaesthetic or antiseptic. The immersive talk vividly recreated the challenges faced by Victorian surgeons and patients, illustrating the bravery, skill, and ingenuity needed in the era’s rudimentary medical practices. Students were captivated as they explored exhibits that provided a stark reminder of the extraordinary advancements made in medical science over the centuries.
The adventure continued at the Medicine Galleries in the Science Museum, where students took part in an educational treasure hunt. This interactive activity encouraged them to engage closely with exhibits linked directly to their GCSE studies. Highlights included viewing Andreas Vesalius’ On the Fabric of the Human Body from 1543—a groundbreaking work that transformed the study of human anatomy—and Alexander Fleming’s preserved sample of Penicillium mould, which led to the discovery of penicillin in 1935. These artifacts served as powerful connections to the scientific pioneers who shaped the course of medicine.
The trip was an invaluable opportunity for students to witness the artifacts and historical milestones that underpin their coursework. By exploring the origins and evolution of medical practices, they gained not only knowledge but also a profound respect for the history of medicine. We are grateful to both the Old Operating Theatre and the Science Museum for helping our students experience history so vividly.
