The Chartist Cottage at Dodford, Wiltshire has recently reopened after restoration work by the National Trust. It provides an insight into the rigours of mid-19th century working life and the history of the Chartist movement, which began in the 1830s. Access is for pre-booked educational groups only. Features include the original range (still working), fireplaces, an earth closet and an indoor water pump. Furnishings include wooden beds with straw-filled mattresses. Visiting students change into period clothing, bake bread, sweep with besom brooms and help maintain a crop rotation system in front of the cottage. Tel: 01527 831363. Web: www.avoncroft.org.uk

ANCIENT STONES

Experience the Midsummer solstice dawn at Stonehenge, uncover ancient treasures and help lift the stones that created the monument at the new Stonehenge Gallery in the Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum, Salisbury. Tel: 01722 332151. Web: www. salisburymuseum.org.uk

AUGERS AND ADZES

A Saxon hall has been recreated at The Bishops Wood Environmental Education Centre, Worcestershire. Local materials such as oak, hazel and chestnut were used. So were Saxon tools, including iron axes, augers, chisels, adzes and small saws. Visiting schoolchildren can dress in Saxon costume and try out jewellery making, weaving and pottery firing. Details from John Rhymer. Tel: 01299 250513. Web: www.4seasons.org.ukcentresbishop

INSIDE YOURSELF

At Eureka! The Museum for Children in Halifax, primary children have the chance to take a journey inside the human body.

In a new workshop called Mission Impossible: the Inside Story, pupils confront dastardly villain Dr Foe as he throws challenges in their path. The workshop, which supports science and English, is available until December 14.

Also on offer until May 24 is Reach for the Stars, a 50-minute interactive workshop for the foundation stage. This uses nursery rhymes, craft activities and role-play games to teach young children about the sun, moon and stars. Tel: 01422 330012. Web: www.eureka.org.uk

MOUNTAIN COURSE

The Field Studies Council Overseas Experiences runs a number of professional and accredited training courses including the advanced Mountain Leader Award (Summer). Assessment takes place November 12-16. Cost: pound;294 or pound;249 non-residential. Tel: 01743 852150. Web: www. fscoverseas.mcmail.com Val Hall