Leeds Castle, a stunning 12th-century castle nestled in the heart of Kent, offers a wealth of educational opportunities for school trips. Whether you’re looking to immerse your students in history, art, or science, this iconic landmark provides a unique and engaging learning experience.
Curriculum-Aligned Educational Sessions and Workshops
Leeds Castle’s educational team has curated a range of workshops and sessions that cater to different age groups and curriculum topics. These include:
Themed Workshops
- Designed for UK schools and must be booked in advance
- Cover subjects such as Drama, History, Art, and more
Packages and Talks
- Educational talks available on topics like History, Art, Leisure, Tourism, and Marketing
- Suitable for Key Stages 2, 3, and 4
- Must be booked in advance
Self-Guided Visits
- Schools can plan their day as they wish, exploring the Castle, its grounds, and attractions at their own pace
- A teacher’s pack with a site map, guidance notes, and risk advice notes is provided
Curriculum Topics Covered
Leeds Castle’s educational offerings cover a wide range of subjects, ensuring that your students can engage with the content in a meaningful and enriching way.
Art
- Workshops like “A Walk on the Wild Side” (KS1 & Lower KS2), “The Artful Henry” (KS2), and “Badges and Banners” (KS1, KS2 & KS3)
History
- Workshops include “From Cave to Castle” (KS2), which covers the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, and more, and “King of the Castle” (KS3), which focuses on developing history skills
English
- Workshops like “The Swan Princess” (KS1) and “Sybil the Cygnet” (KS1) cover comprehension, fairy tales, myths, and legends
Science
- “A Walk on the Wild Side” (KS1 & Lower KS2) covers plants, living things, habitats, ecology, and the environment
Practical Details
When planning your Leeds Castle school trip, consider the following practical details:
- Duration: Visits typically last around four hours, including a one-hour workshop activity, a 30-45 minute visit to the Castle, and additional time to explore.
- Capacity: Each workshop’s capacity varies, but groups of less than 25 are allowed, with a minimum cost applied.
- Rates: Special rates are available for schools from Kent, Surrey, Essex, Sussex, and London. Standard group rates apply for other UK and non-UK schools.
- Risk Assessments: Leeds Castle provides risk assessments and offers free places for teachers to carry out preliminary visits.
Awards and Recognition
Leeds Castle’s educational programs have been recognized for their excellence, earning the prestigious Sandford Award for Heritage Education. This award acknowledges the castle’s varied and interesting educational offerings, which are strongly linked to the National Curriculum.
Additional Resources
In addition to the educational workshops and sessions, Leeds Castle also supports the Children’s University, offering a trail that can be completed to earn a passport stamp.
Booking and Enquiries
To plan your Leeds Castle school trip, you can submit an enquiry form to the Education Manager, who will work with you to discuss your specific requirements and create a memorable learning experience for your students.
Leeds Castle is a true gem, offering a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty. By incorporating a school trip to this iconic landmark, you can unlock a world of educational opportunities for your students, fostering their curiosity and deepening their understanding of the world around them.
References:
- https://leeds-castle.com/learning-schools/learning-enquiry/
- https://leeds-castle.com/themed-workshops-packages-talks/
- https://leeds-castle.com/themed-workshops-packages-talks/themed-workshops/
- https://www.planmyschooltrip.co.uk/805/Leeds-Castle.php
- https://leeds-castle.com/learning-schools/