Behind the Brontës: The Life of Nancy de Garrs
Using research from the Brontë Parsonage Museum, this resource uncovers the life of Nancy de Garrs, who started working for the Brontë family at the age of thirteen as a Nanny and later as a housekeeper.
Through her story and her close connection to the Brontë family, learners will explore themes such as the invisibility of working-class women’s labour within broader histories and the power of the Yorkshire landscape.
This pack includes a specially commissioned short story by writer Kristina Diprose, with sketches by Bradford-based illustrator Scarlett Bunting. Using these as a source of inspiration, learners will be invited to create their own piece of creative writing that engages with the themes that emerge from Nancy’s story.
- Recommended for: Ages 9-14 (Upper Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 learners)
- Includes: Discussion prompts / Creative investigations / Short story / Creative writing activity / Art activity
- Links to: History / Heritage / English/ Creative Writing / Local learning
Pack content at a glance
- Story – Discover hidden stories from Bradford’s communities
- Investigate – Prompts and questions to spark discussion, reflection, writing, worksheets, or other follow-up activities after hearing the story.
- Get Inspired – An artwork that helps learners connect with the historical context and themes.
- Learn and Create – Creative activity ideas inspired by the story and artwork, encouraging imaginative responses.
- Dig Deeper – Suggestions for extension activities, further exploration, and links to additional resources.
