Urswick School Museum, London

The Urswick School in Hackney, London has been operating since 1520 and is one of the oldest schools in the country with an impressive history. To mark 495 years since opening and help acquaint students with the schools heritage a museum space was developed within the school itself. This museum space utilises a number of pictures and artefacts, some over 100 years old, along with audio visual exhibits which help tell Urswicks storied past.

With a number of multi-media items to share including images, videos, an electronic copy of the schools 1961 Punishment Book, and audio recordings we were commissioned to supply and install the hardware and software with which to present this content.

A number of off-the-shelf software interactives were used to share an array of multi-media content with visitors. Central to the interpretation plan is a large 46″ Multi-touch table from our ‘Grand’ range with Lightbox 2 installed. Lightbox 2 allows the display of audio, video, images and text content in a customisable graphical user interface – with a backend which facilitates the continual update of new media content.

An All-in-One 22″ touchscreen was built into a bespoke cabinet which displays an original 1961 Punishment Book from the school. Due to its age interaction with the actual book isn’t possible however using PageTurn software visitors can browse an electronic copy of the book complete with page turning effect. Visitors are also able to play a quiz regarding the schools history via TouchQuiz software and a free standing 22″ multi-touch kiosk.

A number of audio clips share further background information of the school via a Period Telephone. This genuine 1950’s era phone allows visitors to select audio content by dialling numbers whilst a cabinet containing a wood carving of the schools namesake Christopher Urswick shares further information via a button activated audio point. Wall mounted to one side is also a 22″ MediaScreen Schedule which displays archive footage on loop.

The museum space has proved a great resource in teaching students about the history of the school as well as parents who are able to visit during certain school events.