This week, Bishopton PRU welcomed writer and educator Mike O’Shaughnessy for an inspiring creative workshop titled Perfume Stories — an innovative session designed to explore how scent can evoke memories, emotions, and imagination.
Through this unique sensory experience, pupils discovered the fascinating history of perfume and gained insight into the science behind how scent and memory are connected. As Mike explains in his workshop introduction:
“We have all experienced when a perfume or fragrance stops us in our tracks and places us right at the centre of a particular place and time. Some are childhood memories, but others are more complex. They can often be incredibly vivid or like someone calling us from a distance… All it takes is for a certain molecule in a perfume to come along and trigger a reaction.”
Armed with a workbook, scented cards, and even coffee beans to ‘cleanse’ their noses, students explored a range of fragrances — including Shalimar, Two Stroke, and Sneakerheads — each carefully chosen for the story or inspiration behind it. Pupils were encouraged to identify the different ‘notes’ of each scent and reflect on any personal memories or emotions these evoked.
The workshop blended history, science, and creativity, with pupils learning fascinating facts about perfume’s origins — such as the story of Marie Antoinette’s escape from France, foiled when her perfume was recognised by a passer-by!
Students then channelled their inspiration into creative expression, producing posters, descriptive writing, and personal ‘perfume stories’ inspired by memories or moments special to them. This multi-sensory approach to learning — engaging sight, sound, touch, and smell — encouraged all students to participate confidently, regardless of their usual learning style.
The workshop also highlighted the power of alternative learning approaches. By using scent as a stimulus, students were able to connect with language and creativity in new ways, expressing themselves through writing, art, and discussion.
Feedback from pupils was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the experience as “relaxing,” “interesting,” and “different from anything we’ve done before.”
English Teacher at Bishopton commented:
“This was a truly unique opportunity for our pupils to see how creativity can be sparked from unexpected places. Mike’s approach really resonated with our learners and helped them see that everyone has a story to tell — sometimes you just need a different way to unlock it.”
Bishopton PRU would like to thank Mike O’Shaughnessy for delivering such an engaging and thought-provoking session. Perfume Stories is a great reminder that learning doesn’t have to follow one path — and that creativity, curiosity, and personal expression are at the heart of every great educational experience.