Year 5 Unearth Tudor Secrets at Hampton Court Palace
Last week, Year 5 stepped into the world of Henry VIII, a world of power, splendour, surprising technology and more than a little danger. Their trip to Hampton Court Palace revealed incredible Tudor facts and fascinating mysteries and discoveries.
Here are some of their favourites ‘Did You Know…?’ moments!
Did you know the Tudors had a clock that predicted the future?
The astronomical clock was the star of the show for many pupils.
“It felt like the future when I saw it… It LITERALLY DID tell the future!” — James
“The thing that surprised me the most was the astronomical clock.” — Shiv
“My favourite part was the astronomical clock because I like maths.” — Liam
It could show the time, the phases of the moon, the stars, the tides of the Thames — and it’s over 500 years old.
Did you know Henry VIII executed 57,000 people?
Year 5 were astonished by the power and ruthlessness of Henry VIII.
“I was confused that he actually killed his best man.” — Quinn
“If you talked about the king’s death you would be executed.” — Liam
“People were scared of being killed.” — Molly
Several children were also surprised by how little power the king sometimes had:
“Why was Henry so demanding even though he needed permission from Parliament?” (pupil reflection)
Did you know… the princess could be more important than the queen?
Many pupils were fascinated by this fact and it sparked discussions about Tudor roles, hierarchy and the order of nobles, from guard all the way to king.
Did you know… ceilings could be modern and 500 years old?
The pupils were amazed at how old the ceilings were yet they looked so modern in style. Tudor design certainly made an impression — especially in the Great Hall and chapel.
Did you know Tudor tapestries were the ultimate status symbol?
The Great Hall left the children speechless:
“The tapestries were absolutely flabbergasting!” — James
“The Great Hall showed how rich he was.” — Sophia
“He would be most proud of the Great Hall — it is big, grand and beautiful.” — Sophia
Some even noticed the watching eyes of the eavesdroppers, carved into the beams to listen for treason!
Did you know Tudor kitchens were bigger than most houses?
The enormous kitchens helped children imagine Tudor life:
“250 people worked in the kitchens at once!” — Nora
“The kitchens were so, so, so big.” — Nora
“Seeing where they cooked and ate helped me imagine daily life.” — Averie
Did you know Henry VIII wrote music?
Many children were surprised to discover that Henry VIII was not just a king, but also a musician.
Safe to say that everyone thoroughly enjoyed their day especially the drama workshops that brought Tudor times vividly to life and enriched our learning. What did they think of Hampton Court Palace?
“Beautiful, stunning, amazing.” — Liam
“Welcoming, luxurious, interesting.” — Averie
“Beautiful, huge, sensational.” — Sophia
