Bolton Castle
09 May 2024
Class one had a fantastic time at Bolton Castle.Class one had a wonderful
We began by having a tour of the castle and its defences. The children recognised many of these from our learning in school. We spotted arrow slits, the portcullis and the battlements and went in the dungeon.
We then talked to Dave about castle life and why Mary, Queen of Scots was held at Bolton Castle. The children were able to share their knowledge as well. They found out that Mary, Queen of Scots was held there because she feared for her life in Scotland.
After that, we learnt a stately dance for lords and ladies. The music was written by Henry III. The children then showed the dance to the Queen. She was very impressed.
Next, we met Mary, Queen of Scots in her rooms and had the opportunity to ask her questions and learn more about her time at the castle. She was very nice! We had to bow to the Queen and call her your grace. She spoke to us about the things she liked to do and her son.
After lunch, we did a spear drill. We had to march like soldiers with our spears to the drum and follow the commands such as halt and charge. Dave also showed us the arrows. He told us that men had to make their sons a bow and two arrows for them to use when they turned 7.
Later in the afternoon, we split into two groups and alternated between two activities: learning about herbs and making 'plague' bags and handling some artefacts. We particulalry enjoyed trying on the helmets and holding the weapons. The plagye bags were thought to stop people getting the plague and were made from herbs from the gardens.
After that, we spent some time exploring the lord's chamber and the battlements on the castle. Dave talked to us about some of the markings around the castle that were carved when the castle was made.
Finally, we finished the day by exploring the maze.
Thank you for supporting us to develop the children's knowledge and learning with such a fantastic trip.
Have a lovely weekend!
Miss Thewsey