Focussing on the Viking time you will take a journey across the northern seas in our full size Viking long ship.
After arriving at our Saxon Hall you will learn skills such as brooch making, spinning wool and clay pot making. Inside the Hall you will get a sense of what life was like at this time and discover the importance of fire. The children will make overnight shelters using natural materials. A very active and fun filled day bringing the Viking times to life. A fully packed day with lots of first-hand experiences for the children to take part in.
Learning Objectives
- Develop understanding of the Viking culture through practical activities and role play
- Consider the reasons for invasion and settlement.
- Respond to and ask questions.
- Identify some of the ways we find out about the past.
- Manage their own risk taking and carry out activities safely.
- Take part in outdoor and adventurous activities as part of a team.
- Respect the environment and all living things.
Example Timetable
The course normally runs 10am – 2.30pm. There will be an approx. 30 min lunch slot, the timing will depend on the final agreed course programme.
Pre visit/prior learning
- No prior knowledge is required. Understanding of the timeline and the chronology for Saxon and Viking invasions and why they came to Britain is useful.
Welcome and introduction
- Group discussion on the time period, what the children already know and what life was like in the Saxon and Viking periods.
Morning Session
- After discussing why we might travel to a new land, we consider what we might take and how we will get there.
- We will row across the Northern sea to reach a new settlement and discuss what life was like travelling at sea.
- The children will visit a Saxon house and discover what was in there and have the opportunity to ask questions.
- They will be split into 3 groups and on a rotation, take part in the following activities. They will be able to keep all of the items they have made.
1. Brooch making using copper and hammers,
2. Clay pot making,
3. Spinning sheep wool using drop spindles
Afternoon Session
- The children will work in teams to build a natural shelter, covering it with natural materials.
- With the shelter built, we will then consider fire; how will we light a fire? What resources will we need? The tutor will demonstrate how fires were lit using a piece of flint.
Depart
Future learning/follow up
- This day can be the start of your work on Saxons and Vikings or a celebration at the end of the topic
- This day will bring the subject to life, creating opportunities for children to discuss their firsthand learning experiences.
- They can use these experiences for creative writing, displays and posters.
How this course fulfills the specification
Key Stage 2, History
- Britains Settlement by the Anglo-Saxons
- The Viking and Anglo-Saxon struggle for the kingdom of England.
- Anglo-Saxon invasions, settlements and Kingdoms
- Viking invasion
- Use of appropriate historical terms.
- Chronologically secure knowledge and understanding of British History.
Key Stage 2, Design and Technology
- Build structures, exploring how they can be made stronger, stiffer and more stable.
Added value of this course
- Develop personal skills
- Have fun
- Be inspired by a passion for the subject
- Build friendships
Related Information
Customer Information
Details of how to book, terms and conditions, policies and procedures, including risk assessments, can be found on our website here.
Variation
The outline shown is indicative. Whilst we do our best to deliver the agreed programme, we sometimes must change the programme due to for example, weather, access to sites, or staffing issues. Most changes are insignificant and will not affect your trip.
Liaison
This programme is designed to meet the curriculum/specification requirements.
Prior to your visit, one of the Tutors leading your group will be in touch via email. This is an opportunity for us to find out more about the group and to make small adjustments to meet your groups needs.
Tuition
Tuition is delivered by Field Studies Council Tutors, with an expert knowledge of the subject and fieldwork locations, and a passion for the subject being taught. The education team are DBS checked, and undergo regular training including in first aid, water safety and risk assessments.
Transport
There is no requirement for transport during the day. All activities take place on site or within walking distance.
Teaching groups
Your group will be divided into an agreed number of taught groups at the point of booking. This may not match your normal classes. Please subdivide the taught group into subgroups in advance of your visit, discuss with the tutor at liaison how many subgroups are required.
Teachers and supporting adults
The school should provide teachers and support staff, or parents, to meet minimum ratios per teaching group. Teachers and adults are expected to participate and support the student's learning. Teachers are expected to manage behaviour & support group management, and to supervise break and lunch times.
What to bring
A kit list can be found on our website here. Please adjust this based on the weather conditions. Ensure the group bring lunch and plenty to drink.
Clothing and footwear
Appropriate outdoor clothing (and waterproofs) should be worn, taking into account the weather forecast. The group will be outside most of the day, even in wet weather. It is advised that long trousers are worn, even on sunny days due to the presence of ticks. We advise wearing sensible footwear – trainers or walking boots that can get muddy.