Jack the Ripper tour and visit to Ravensbourne University
Recently, students from Mayesbrook Park Campus embarked on a fascinating trip combining historical exploration and modern media experience. The day began with an immersive Jack the Ripper walking tour in Whitechapel, London, followed by an inspiring visit to Ravensbourne University in Greenwich.
The purpose of this trip was to provide students with a unique opportunity to link their curriculum to real-world experiences. In Whitechapel, students deepened their understanding of the 19th century and the mystery of Jack the Ripper, exploring the failure to capture the infamous criminal. The tour allowed them to "go back in time," walking past some of the original buildings from that era and imagining what life in East London was like during that time.
At Ravensbourne University, students toured the Media and Music departments, sparking curiosity and interest in the creative industries. The university’s cutting-edge facilities impressed the students, particularly the TV studio and production gallery.
The university tour offered a valuable encounter with higher education, giving students the chance to envision potential career paths in media production, TV, and film.
Joanna Rowse, Outreach Officer from Ravensbourne, was particularly impressed by the students, saying: ‘It was lovely to have Mayesbrook staff and young people visit the university. We were impressed by the students’ engagement and enthusiasm—particularly at the end of a long day of walking around London!
One tour guide also commented on the students' engagement: ‘I had a great time with the students, especially loved that one of them told me he wanted to become a tour guide when he left school!’
Impact on Students
This trip not only enriched students' knowledge of Victorian London but also inspired them to consider potential careers in media and the arts. By linking history with modern-day skills and potential career paths, the experience was both educational and aspirational.