Form 3 turned back the clock to 1536 and experienced a typical Christmas under the reign of King Henry VIII donning costumes of the period to be nobility or servants. Children and staff left modern day Britain behind and travelled back to the Tudor era to explore life in the 16th century with a workshop run by 'History Off the Page'.
Form 3 began in the court of King Henry VIII in the year of our Lord, 1536. Despite rumours and intrigue surrounding his second wife, Anne Boleyn, the King's household had plenty of tasks to attend to. As members of a nobleman's household, they worked on various tasks in preparation for the Twelve Days of holiday.
Activities included making soap balls, scent bags, miniature paintings and ink - which was used for the records of the House. The children also experienced a range of crafts that included: Alchemists, Apothecaries, barbers, Chandlers, Embroiders, Leatherworkers, Scholars (ink making and writing) and Scent bag and Soap makers. They particularly enjoyed role-playing the rudimentary surgery! The children all enjoyed taking part in the traditional Tudor activities, which were all hands-on learning.
The afternoon was given over to a Tudor 'Feast' where groups presented Tudor singing, dancing, juggling and a Tudor festive favourite, a play. The children all took on various roles at a mock royal banquet. Servitors made sure that festivities ran without a hitch, and served the food and drink (bread, cheese, ginger biscuits and water). Some parent helpers were assigned to the 'top table' for the best view of the play, others relegated to the servants' table.
As the afternoon unfolded, more rumours swirled around the ill-fated Anne Boleyn. The background narrative really helped to bring the Tudor era alive.
The children were immersed in history and surrounded by authentic replica artefacts. It was a day full of practical learning, story-telling and drama.
