A Tower of London school trip offers an immersive educational experience, blending history, culture, and interactive learning. Students explore the iconic fortress, delving into its roles as a palace, prison, and stronghold. From guided sessions tailored to different key stages to self-led visits with activity trails, the Tower provides a rich historical backdrop for curriculum-based learning, covering periods from the Normans to the Tudors.
What Does a Tower of London School Trip Entail?
A school trip to the Tower of London typically includes:
- Guided sessions or self-led visits
- Exploration of key historical sites within the Tower
- Interactive learning experiences
- Curriculum-aligned activities
- Opportunities to see the Crown Jewels
How Are Guided Sessions Structured for Different Age Groups?
Guided sessions are tailored to specific key stages:
Key Stage 1 (Ages 5-7)
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Focus: Introduction to Tower’s history through stories and role play
- Activities: Interactive rhymes and games
Key Stage 2 (Ages 7-11)
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Focus: Norman, Medieval, and Tudor periods
- Activities: Meet historical figures, explore turning points in history
Key Stage 3 (Ages 11-14)
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Focus: Historical concepts like continuity and change
- Activities: In-depth exploration of medieval and Tudor periods
GCSE and A Level (Ages 14-18)
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Focus: Specific historical themes (e.g., Normans, Elizabeth I)
- Activities: Advanced historical analysis and argument development
What Are the Options for Self-Led Visits?
Self-led visits offer flexibility and independence:
- Activity Trails: Available for all key stages
- Duration: Recommended 3+ hours for full site exploration
- Focus: Palace, prison, fortress roles; Crown Jewels
- Educational Objectives: Independent learning and exploration
What Educational Resources Are Available?
The Tower of London provides various resources to enhance the learning experience:
- Activity Trails: Free, downloadable guides for different key stages
- Learning Resources: Worksheets and interactive guides
- Online School Sessions: Virtual learning options via Zoom
How Much Does a Tower of London School Trip Cost?
Subsidized entry rates are available for schools:
| Student Category | Cost per Student |
|---|---|
| Domestic (5-15) | £4.10 |
| Domestic (16+) | £4.10 |
| International (5-15) | £7.00 |
| International (16+) | £7.00 |
Teachers and adults within agreed ratios: Free
Additional adults: £31.00 (2023/24) or £32.10 (2024/25)
What Are the Key Historical Events Students Will Learn About?
Students will explore significant events in British history:
- Norman Conquest and White Tower construction
- Tudor period, including Henry VIII’s reign
- Gunpowder Plot and Guy Fawkes
- Crown Jewels and their significance
Who Are the Important Historical Figures Students Will Encounter?
Students will learn about key figures such as:
- King William I (William the Conqueror)
- Henry VIII and his six wives
- Elizabeth I
- Guy Fawkes
What Safety Measures Are in Place for School Groups?
The Tower of London prioritizes visitor safety:
- Security checks at entrance
- Designated meeting points for groups
- First aid facilities on-site
- Clear signage and safety information throughout
How Can Teachers Prepare Students for the Trip?
To maximize the educational value of the trip, teachers can:
- Use pre-visit resources provided by the Tower
- Assign specific research topics to students
- Prepare questions for guided sessions
- Plan follow-up activities to reinforce learning
What Additional Activities Can Enhance the School Trip?
To enrich the experience, consider:
- Yeoman Warder Tours (Beefeaters)
- Themed tours (e.g., Crime and Punishment)
- Crown Jewels exhibition
- Royal Armouries displays
When Is the Best Time to Plan a Tower of London School Trip?
Consider the following factors:
- School term dates
- Tower opening times (daily except for select holidays)
- Seasonal variations in visitor numbers
- Curriculum timing for relevant historical topics
By carefully planning and utilizing the resources available, a Tower of London school trip can provide an unforgettable and educationally rich experience for students of all ages.
References:
1. https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/schools/school-sessions/
2. https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/schools/
3. https://www.nstgroup.co.uk/school-trips-to-the-tower-of-london
4. https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/schools/self-led-school-visits/
5. https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/schools/plan-a-school-visit/