Henry VIII and Kateryn Parr. Picture © C24
Here in the Teachers section, we'll be bringing you regular feedback from teachers on cultural venues. We start with Year Two teacher Anna Brice, from Chandlers Field School, Molesey, who visited the Henry VIII: heads and hearts exhibition at Hampton Court Palace.
Henry VIII: heads and hearts is a year-long programme of events at Hampton Court Palace marking the 500th anniversary of Henry's acccession to the throne. Henry's Tudor palace now brings you the story of the King, his family and royal court with exciting new exhibitions, displays, performances, special events including Henry's wedding to his sixth wife, Kateryn Parr.
"Henry VIII: heads and hearts is excellent for children of all ages learning about the Tudor period. It is a valuable experience for all types of learners and is brought to life with the help of live historical interpreters, who completely immerse themselves in their roles as members of Henry VIII's household.
There is a vast amount to see at the palace, including Tudor kitchens carefully laid out with equipment and food, appearing as they would have done 500 years ago. Tudor games are available for children to play, giving them the opportunity to experience entertainment in Tudor times.
Henry's tapestries revealed. Picture © C24
The small exhibition is perfect for children in Key Stage 2. It includes portraits of all six of Henry's wives and daughters along with accessible, interesting descriptions of each person. There are also artefacts from the period.
A short presentation on a Tudor tapestry is definitely worth seeing, as the projection turns a seemingly dull tapestry into something quite amazing, illustrating how magnificent this tapestry would have been hundreds of years ago.
However, the historical re-enactments are definitely the highlight of the day. Visitors take part in a range of events in the build up to Henry VIII's marriage to Kateryn Parr, offering you the chance to learn how to dress and behave at court, as well as how to greet the King.
Volunteer Anna congratulates the king on his marriage. Picture © C24
The actors and actresses are splendidly dressed, really capturing the character and behaviour of each person. It's a real insight into the individuals who made up Henry's court.
Children can interact with the characters of the day, gaining a first-hand insight into a bygone period which would otherwise be difficult to comprehend in these present times.
The Royal Palaces website is packed with useful factsheets and guides to help you plan a visit and teach onsite at Hampton Court, and a virtual tour will give you a taste of what you can expect to find when you visit.
For more information and learning resources for Hampton Court Palace visit Hampton Court Palace".
