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Reception visit Hedingham Castle

Hedingham Castle

On Thursday 8th October, both Reception classes visited Hedingham Castle. It was organised by a company called “Hands from the Past”.

The children experienced what it was like in Norman times. All the adults at the castle were dressed in Norman costumes and some spoke old English!!

The day started by a talk from a monk called ‘Brother Justin’, who told the children that if they had been naughty in Norman times, they were made to say prayers or go on a pilgrimage. He also explained that he looked after the sick and injured as well as being a knight!

The Archer gave us the next demonstration. He showed us what arrows were made of and how to use a bow by firing his arrows at a straw target.

The third activity was a popular one: Jousting. The children were given a wooden lance and a horse, and galloped, collecting five hoops and hitting the shield at the end. Mr. Sansom (Lucy’s daddy) was given the job of collecting them. What a good job he did, too!

The children then looked at and compared the different plates and goblets which the Normans used. The rich had metal plates and the poor, wooden. The cups were made from animal horns.

In the Great Hall, the children listened to and were shown old musical instruments such as the Hurdy-Gurdy, a very old bagpipe and a recorder with two holes, which was very clever.

After our picnic out in the sunshine, we all tried on the different hats worn in Norman times, such as maids' hats, lords' and ladies' hats, jesters etc.

Then came the scary bit for some: going down into the dark dungeon to see the weapons. Some children were able to try on armour and hold real swords and shields, which was very exciting. Mrs. Laurie had her head chopped off but luckily it was only pretend!!

We would like to thank all the parents who helped make the day such a success!