Teaching aids

Mills and milling provide much educational value.

The study of mills and milling (known as molinology) provides helpful and attractive material for those researching History at various levels from primary school through to degree level. As traditional mills served most areas, study of local history can be particularly rewarding. Lessons can be developed further into the study of buildings and machinery as well as the history and roles of the people involved in the rural economy and early industry.

The evolution of design and the contrasting applications of wind-, water- and muscle-power lead nicely into issues relevant to those studying Art and Design (especially the elements of the course related to Building & Construction and Photographs & Images). In common with other examples of vernacular architecture, mills were often designed in a readily identifiable local style – for example, Lincolnshire tower mills, with their distinctive "ogee" caps.

For those studying Geography in KS2, relevant areas of study covered by information in the Mills Archive include:

• The geology of materials, both in the construction of mills (where local geology determined building materials) and in the different rocks used as millstones, such as Derbyshire millstone grit and French burr from the Paris basin.
• Wind, water and tidal power are striking examples of renewable energy sources.

The material gathered from the Archive can be supplemented with visits to local mills and these can be identified using the educational search engine on the Resources page.

How to use the Archive

To explore the Archive you will need to register by identifying your school, providing a valid email address and selecting a password. To help you get the best out of the Archive catalogue, a selection of the Archive records has been identified as of educational significance. More information.

History

Traditionally, a mill powered by wind, water or animals would have served every community. The study of milling from ancient querns to the steam mills of the Victorian era has fascinated historians for many years. More information.

Education packs

Many mills provide education packs for use by teachers and pupils and there is probably a mill near you that may be worth approaching. There is a way of listing mills near you on the Resources page.

UK National Curriculum

Emphasis will be on supporting Key Stage 2 with future development of Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 as well as life-long learning modules. The facilities available will be progressively increased, relying on feedback from students and teachers. More information.

Resources

Educational material in the Archive is most easily found by using our catalogue. To explore the Archive you will need to register by identifying your school, providing a valid email address and selecting a password. More information.

We also maintain a large library of printed books and pamphlets on the subject of mills and milling. More information