WEEK 1

We looked at old photographs and film about life on the road in horse drawn days including patterns of agricultural work, life by the fireside and traditional winter stopping places. Discussed the role of the family in Traveller society and the Romany culture and language. We each received a workbook to take home in which to enter details of our family history including the birthdays and place of birth of parents, grandparents and great grandparents.

 

WEEK 2

Illustrated talk following the diaspora from India and discovered what the components of language can tell us about what countries the Roma passed through and how long they spent in them. History of persecution in mainland Europe and the evolution of oppression in Germany through the 20 Century from early police registrations through to the final solution. Used the camera to video discussion about school life and education.

WEEK 3

Viewed extracts from 'Snatch' and 'Gypsy Girl' and discussed portrayal of Travellers in both. Snatch is very negative showing a Traveller defecating by his trailer and implying that Travellers are dirty, thieving and dishonourable. Gypsy Girl trades on historical romantic stereotypes but still shows a young Traveller with bad manners and dirty habits. We discussed how we would make our own drama.

WEEK 4

Continued working on family history workbooks, building up a pattern of how long our families had lived and travelled in Kent. Examination of contemporary Romany language and how it evolved after the diaspora from India 1000 years ago as it passed through different countries. Made wordlists and tested each others knowledge of the language.

WEEK 5

Prepared for next weeks trip to the Romany Experience at Paultons Park in Hampshire. Watched a video, 'Kushti Atchin Tan' which showed how lifestyle changed as Travellers went from living in tents, then horse drawn wagons and eventually into modern trailers. Every change of accomodation meant a change in how life was lived. We talked about changes in dress, fashion and decorative styles.

WEEK 6

We went to the Romany Experience at Paultons Park which has life size displays of Gypsy life in days gone by. Filled in worksheets about what was learnt there

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