On Tuesday 6 October, Year 8 historians travelled to Hampton Court Palace, accompanied by Head of History Mrs Catherine Munro, to enjoy a day learning more about Tudor life, and the reign of Henry VIII. The boys have been studying the Tudors in class and relished the opportunity to experience a more hands on approach with learning.
The historic palace is widely regarded as the favourite of Henry VIII’s 60 homes, having been lavishly decorated and frequently used for hosting guests. The Year 8 pupils enjoyed learning about Tudor architecture, the logistics of running and housing a court of 800, and the kitchens of the palace. Cushions had been arranged on the floor of the Great Hall, so that the pupils could lie back and take in the stunning ceiling architecture! The historians also learnt how the Tudors would only take two meals a day, although Henry VIII managed to eat himself into a 54 inch waist! The day proved not only educational but thoroughly enjoyable, and, continuing with the theme of food, highlights included seeing a wine-fountain in the quadrangle, and the biggest fridge imaginable!
As well as exploring the palace inside, the pupils made the most of the autumnal sunshine by heading outside and trying to find their way through the 300 year old maze, which takes pride of place in the grounds of the palace. The trapezoid maze is the UK’s oldest surviving hedge maze, known for confusing and intriguing visitors with its many twists, turns and dead ends. Thankfully, all of the boys managed to make it through the maze quickly! Mrs Munro said of the trip that ‘the boys behaved beautifully and really enjoyed learning about the Tudors in a different setting than a classroom; it makes such a difference seeing the environment in which Henry VIII would have lived - like stepping back in time, and we’re lucky to have such great facilities almost on our doorstep.’