Young guides explore the "Geography Lessons" exposition

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Participants of the Young Tour Guides School have begun their first in-depth introduction to the new exposition "Geography Lessons" at the National Centre RUSSIA. It is here, as in other exposition spaces, that they will lead tours for real visitors. Each young guide has already chosen one of eight thematic halls — the one that best matches their interests, mood, or school knowledge.

Some of the students are just beginning to learn the basics of geography, while others already use complex terminology and feel confident working with maps. What unites them is a genuine interest in the subject and a desire to share their knowledge and discoveries.

"I was really looking forward to the 'Geography Lessons' exposition because I get top marks in geography. I think I will be able to present the exhibits in an engaging and interesting way," said Evelina Chernova, a participant in the project.

Maria Knyazeva chose the "Courage" hall for her tour. While preparing, she made several unexpected discoveries — for example, she became interested in the decorative figures on the bows of historic ships.

"I did not know before that they had meaning. But it turns out that even in Ancient Rome people believed that, for example, Fortuna brings luck, while Neptune protects from storms. Now I understand that these decorations are not just ornaments, but symbols of the ship owner’s wealth, as well as the strength and power of the country," Maria Knyazeva shared.

She was also intrigued by an old surveying instrument: "It is unusual and completely different from modern laser devices."

Maria Dolgusheva said that she was most drawn to the "Geography Classroom" hall, styled as a mid-20th-century schoolroom. According to her, it is a bright, spacious, and truly atmospheric space. Visitors can sit at desks and study a globe, creating the feeling of a real school lesson.

"You could say that from school I am drawn back into 'school', because in this hall I can not only try myself as a guide, but also feel like a real teacher. I also learned that the scientist Fyodor Fyodorovich Erisman designed these unusual desks with a purpose. He cared about children's health — so that we would have good eyesight and proper posture," she said.

The Young Tour Guides School of Russia opened at the National Centre RUSSIA just over a year ago. The project, launched during the International RUSSIA EXPO at VDNH, has become a close-knit community bringing together more than a hundred children and experienced mentors from across the country.

During the programme, participants learn the basics of public speaking, develop skills in working with information, and create engaging tour routes. They also gain the opportunity to lead real tours in the exposition spaces of the National Centre RUSSIA. A key feature of the project is that children are not required to memorise texts — instead, they are encouraged to find their own voice and style.