Panels feature lighthouse keeper implements so you can pretend you are collecting your tools to maintain the lens, light the lamp etc... The flags were hoisted by the Harbour master to instruct ships anchored in the bay. You could pretend to go up the lighthouse to check on the sea conditions and then fly flags to instruct ships to go out to sea to prevent loosing anchors and wrecking on the shore. The symbols were designed by CPlay volunteer Roselyn Fauth

To immerse children in imaginative play using the lighthouse-themed play panels, here are some ideas and activities:

Tool Collection and Maintenance:

• Use the panels featuring lighthouse keeper implements to pretend to collect tools for maintaining the lens and lighting the lamp.
• Discuss the significance of each tool and its role in keeping the lighthouse operational.

Flag Signaling:

• Role-play hoisting flags like the Harbour master to instruct ships in the bay.
• Pretend to assess sea conditions and fly flags to guide ships safely away from potential dangers like losing anchors or wrecking on the shore.

Weather Observation:

• Utilize telescopes or binoculars on the play panels to watch the weather and monitor ships and port activities.
• Discuss the importance of being vigilant for potential dangers and being guardians of the port.

Emergency Response:

• Role-play scenarios where someone or a ship is in trouble, and use the signal gun on the play panel to summon help.
• Emphasize the importance of quick and effective response during emergencies.

Flag Messaging:

• Fly flags from the lighthouse to send messages to ships, such as "Stay out to sea," "Prepare for bad weather," or "Help is on the way."
• Encourage children to create their own messages and discuss their significance.

Lighthouse Maintenance:

• Use the cloth or duster on the play panel to simulate cleaning the lens and glass of the lighthouse.
• Discuss the importance of keeping the lighthouse light on and refueling the lamp to ensure ships' safe passage.

Historical Context:

• Provide background information about the maritime history of the area, including the significance of lighthouses and shipwrecks.
• Share stories or anecdotes related to local lighthouses and their keepers to add depth to the play experience.

Creative Expression:

• Encourage children to create their own stories and scenarios using the play panels, incorporating elements of lighthouse keeping and maritime history.
• Foster creativity and imagination by allowing children to explore different roles and responsibilities of lighthouse keepers.

By integrating these activities and discussions into playtime, you can help children develop a deeper understanding of lighthouse operations, maritime history, and the importance of imagination and creativity.

Here is an example of a story, using Ai to create prompts to play out the story

Title: The Adventure of Captain Meredith: Blackett Lighthouse Keeper
In 1878, a brave soul named Captain Meredith took on the role of the first Blackett Lighthouse keeper. Their mission: to ensure the safety of ships navigating the treacherous waters near the coastal town.

Adventure Time!

1. Climb the Tower: Imagine scaling the spiral staircase of the lighthouse, feeling the breeze grow stronger with each step.
2. Light the Beacon: Reach the top and pretend to ignite the kerosene lamp, announcing proudly that the beacon is ready to guide ships through the night.
3. Raise the Flags: Wave imaginary flags from the mast to send messages to passing ships. Signal "Safe Travels" or "Beware of Storm Ahead" as you keep watch over the weather and ships' status.
4. Practice for Emergencies: Set up a mock emergency drill, imagining a shipwreck nearby. Sound the alarm and rush to the signal gun, pretending to load and fire it to summon people to rush to the rescue.
5. Brave the Storm: Stand strong against the wind and rain, guiding ships through tempests with the lighthouse's steady beam.
6. Explore the Playground: After your heroic duties, explore the playground like an intrepid adventurer. The swings become ships riding the waves, and the climbing frames mimic the rugged cliffs of the coastline.
7. Share Your Adventure: Gather friends to act out the story together, taking turns being Captain Meredith and other characters from the tale.

With your imagination as your compass, embark on endless adventures inspired by the courageous spirit of Captain Meredith and the enduring legacy of the Blackett Lighthouse!

Better yet... You can empower children to lead their play while adults follow suit to encourage meaningful engagement and foster creativity.

In this approach, children are encouraged to explore the play panels freely, initiating activities and scenarios based on their interests and imagination. Adults take on a supportive role, facilitating play by observing, asking open-ended questions, and participating in roles assigned by the children. Collaborative storytelling and problem-solving are encouraged, with adults providing guidance and encouragement while allowing children to take the lead in navigating challenges. A flexible play environment accommodates children's preferences, while reflective listening and validation celebrate their creativity and imaginative contributions.

By prioritizing children's leadership in play and involving adults as supportive participants, this approach cultivates an enriching play experience that promotes creativity, collaboration, and joy.

Here are some images that you could use for your school resources - please note the source of the image and notes on copyright.

The Blackett Lighthouse was originally on the Terrace, No. 7. It was later relocated to the corner of Te Weka Street and Benvenue Ave, and then again to the Benvenue Cliffs. It is a Category II structure and the Historic Places Trust.  LEFT: The Lighthouse at its current site in 2021. Courtesy of Roselyn Fauth. RIGHT: Timaru's lighthouse being relocated 1980.  Courtesy of South Canterbury Museum 2014/107.73

DOWNLOAD The WuHooTimaru Colourful facts sheet on the Blackett Lighthouse

Section of the HMS Ringarooma cruiser in Timaru Harbour where you can see the Blackett Lighthouse up on Le Cren Terrace 1895-02-23 - Auckland Libraries Heritage

A set of the original plans for construction of the Timaru lighthouse hand drawn by John Blackett circa 1877. Courtesy South Canterbury Museum 2004/070.37

This gunnade is believed to have been delivered to Timaru for the use of the Brigade in 1882. Positioned outside the Timaru lighthouse, it probably saw little use. The gun is through to ave remained there for many years. Eventually it passed to the local collector, Keith McFadgen, who had the present gun carriage made to rest the cannon upon. - On display at the South Canterbury Musuem - Photography by Roselyn Fauth

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Rocket brigade badge from SC Museum Display; Timaru Ben Venue Stranded (Timaru, "Ben Venue" stranded, stern, circa 1882, Dunedin, by Burton Brothers studio. Te Papa (C.025205). Bravery Medal from SC Museum Display; Benvenue Cliffs where the ship lies below; Section of mural at Caroline Bay by J. Nilson depicting shipwreck; Looking up Benvenue Cliffs to the Blackett Lighthouse. Photography courtesy of Roselyn Fauth. Learn more here

This photograph shows the Ben Venue wreck in the distance wrecked on the basalt rock apron below the cliff c1880s. Curtosey of Te Papa; Timaru, 1880s, Timaru, by Burton Brothers studio. Purchased 1991. Te Papa (O.034179)

Detail from the original plans for construction of the Timaru lighthouse hand drawn by John Blackett circa 1877. Courtesy South Canterbury Museum 2004/070.37

Keepers weren’t just there to tend to the lens only. They also had to maintain other buildings around the light station and keep things running smoothly. Courtesy RG26: ZZ, Standard Apparatus Plans; Vol. 19, Plate 98. Light Keeper’s Implements, 1862.

Lighthouse Panels to Inspire Imaginative Play Designed by Graphic Artist and CPlay volunteer Roselyn Fauth, inspired by Lighthouse impliments and Blackett's Lighthouse Plans.

Just down from the actual Blackets Lighthouse is an art history sign with a painting by local artist Mike Armstrong. You could incorporate this artwork into your lesson and play to help children learn about the role of the lighthouse keeper.

A art history sign features Blackett story by the lighthouse. Michael Armstrong (1954). Blackett on the Breakwater, 2019. Acrylic on canvas. Friends of the Aigantighe Collection, Aigantighe Art Gallery, 2019.24.1

Known as the ‘cemetery of ships’, Timaru historically provided ‘no safe harbour’. The construction of a breakwater, using large concrete blocks, began in 1878 to address the problem. Known as the ‘cemetery of ships’, Timaru historically provided ‘no safe harbour’. The construction of a breakwater, using large concrete blocks, began in 1878 to address the problem. John Blackett, an engineer and lighthouse designer for the Public Works Department, wrote a progress report for the government on the new breakwater. The findings of the report recommended dismantling the breakwater, because it supposedly caused erosion to a railway viaduct in Caroline Bay. (These predictions were later found to be correct and accelerated erosion to the north affecting the local lagoons).Blackett’s report was very unpopular at the time and a public protest ensued. A mob of hundreds marched down Stafford Street with an effigy of Blackett, which they blew up at the end of the breakwater on June 2, 1880.In this painting, seated in the lower left, is Blackett with the wreck of Fairy Queen - a 214-ton brig that broke its mooring in a southeast gale, caught fire and beached on August 27, 1873. Blakett’s effigy is on the right, exploding on the breakwater, next to a reference to Anderson’s crane employed to lift the 30-ton concrete blocks used in the breakwater.