Windsor Castle offers a variety of educational activities and resources for schools, making it an ideal destination for learning about history, art, and the British monarchy. From interactive online workshops to hands-on activities in the Pug Yard Learning Centre, Windsor Castle provides a unique and engaging educational experience for students of all ages.
School Sessions at Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle’s educational offerings include a range of interactive sessions designed to cater to different age groups and curriculum needs. These sessions cover a wide variety of topics, from the history of the British monarchy to the medieval period and the significance of castles in British history.
Windsor Castle Calling – Online Workshops
These interactive video calls allow individual classes or whole school assemblies to explore topics such as history, art, and the people who have lived at Windsor Castle over nearly 1,000 years.
Meet the Monarch
This session explores the history of the British monarchy, including the roles and responsibilities of the monarch, as well as significant historical events.
Knights Wanted: Apply Here
This session focuses on the medieval period, feudalism, and the lives of knights, with activities such as creating armor and understanding the symbolism of coats of arms.
All About Castles
This session covers the history and significance of castles, including their architecture, the lives of those who lived in them, and their role in British history.
Windsor Lite – When Windsor Comes to You
This session brings the castle experience to the classroom, with activities such as creating armor, understanding the symbolism of coats of arms, and learning about the history of the British monarchy.
Pug Yard Learning Centre
In addition to the school sessions, Windsor Castle also offers a range of activities and facilities at the Pug Yard Learning Centre. This space provides a welcoming and engaging environment for children and families to explore the castle’s history and culture.
Changing Programme of Free Activities
The Pug Yard Learning Centre offers a variety of crafts, storytelling, and ‘make and takes’ for children and families during school holidays.
Picnic Area
Families can enjoy their lunch in the picnic area within the yard or in the indoor lunch hall if the weather is inclement.
Breastfeeding Friendly
The centre has a designated family bathroom with a changing table, making it a comfortable and welcoming space for breastfeeding mothers.
Chill Out Zone
The Chill Out Zone provides a dedicated space for toddlers, with toys and books to keep them entertained.
Caught Short Box
The centre offers a spares box with essentials like nappies, wipes, and clothes in case families need them.
Booking and Planning
Arranging an educational visit to Windsor Castle is a straightforward process, with the Learning Bookings Team available to assist with the planning and booking.
Booking
Schools can contact the Learning Bookings Team with their preferred dates, the number of children and adults, and any special educational or access needs.
Planning Visits
Teachers can conduct a planning visit with two complimentary tickets to familiarize themselves with the Learning Centre and Castle Precincts.
Teachers’ Packs
These downloadable packs provide essential information for teachers before their visit, helping them to plan and prepare their students for the educational experience.
Accessibility and Support
Windsor Castle is committed to ensuring that all visitors, including those with educational or access needs, can fully participate in the educational activities and explore the castle’s rich history and architecture.
Accessibility
Most sessions can be adapted to meet any educational or access needs, and the Learning Centre is fully accessible with suitable toilets.
Changing Places Facility
The castle precincts have a Changing Places facility, which is available for all groups to use.
School Access Scheme and School Travel Support Scheme
These schemes are designed to support state schools working with economically disadvantaged pupils, aiming to increase access to the Royal Collection.
Cost and Timings
Windsor Castle offers competitive pricing for school groups, making it an accessible and affordable educational destination.
Reduced-rate Admission
The admission fee for pre-booked school groups is £6.00 per pupil, with children in Reception or below admitted for free.
Accompanying Adults
One teacher or adult helper is admitted free of charge at specific ratios, with additional adults charged at standard group admission rates.
Online Workshops
The Windsor Castle Calling online workshops are priced at £70 per class, while the Windsor Lite workshops are priced at £150 per session plus travel costs.
Awards and Recognition
Windsor Castle’s commitment to providing high-quality educational experiences has been recognized through several prestigious awards and accreditations.
Sandford Award
Windsor Castle holds the Sandford Award for Heritage Education, recognizing the excellence and quality of its education services.
Learning Outside the Classroom Accreditation
The castle also holds the Learning Outside the Classroom accreditation, which acknowledges its dedication to delivering exceptional educational experiences beyond the classroom.
Reference:
- https://www.rct.uk/discover/school-visits
- https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle/children-and-families-visiting-windsor-castle
- https://www.rct.uk/discover/school-visits/essential-visit-information/windsor-castle
- https://www.heritageeducationtrust.org/award-holder/windsor-castle
- https://www.rct.uk/schools/sessions/windsor-castle-calling-online-workshops