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Cracking Cholera!

Based across the archives and the labs, this workshop sets students on an interactive investigation into the causes and cures of cholera in the past and present.

About this workshop

Put your potions into practice by joining us on an interactive investigation into an outbreak of Cholera, which happened in 19th century Gateshead. Combining the subjects of History and Science, this visit gives your students unique access to Newcastle University Special Collections and the opportunity to carry out practical work in a Newcastle University science lab.

Students will start the day by exploring resources in our Special Collections. Armed with new knowledge and inspiration, they will then hit the labs to create their own 19th century cure for cholera. Next, they'll investigate the use of magic bullets (antibiotics) and see first-hand how their 19th-century tinctures affect the function of cells. Finally, students will become modern day biomedical scientists and must identify cholera victims from a number of bacterial swab samples.

Suitable for: Key Stage 3+

Subject(s): History, Biology and Science

Duration: 1 day

2025-26 Availability: Please see expression of interest form for available dates.

Group size: Up to 32 students per workshop.

A collage of images of students in a lab