A Journey Through History: Year 7’s Trip to Canterbury
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Enrichment Day 2 - Visit to Canterbury
As part of the Year 7 History curriculum, and to support students in their English and Religious Education lessons, our students embarked on an exciting educational visit to the historic city of Canterbury on the 11th of February.
The day began with an enthusiastic group of students boarding the coach, ready for a journey filled with discovery. As we traveled through the picturesque Kent countryside, many students admired the scenery, with some even sketching the rolling landscapes.
Upon arrival, we embarked on a fascinating walking tour of Canterbury. Students observed plaques and historical markers throughout the city, learning about its rich past. Highlights included the City Walls’ defenses, the imposing West Gate Tower, and the remnants of Canterbury Castle. The group also explored a medieval Ducking Stool, once used for putting witches and criminals on trial, and even discovered a historic inn that once provided shelter to weary pilgrims traveling to the famous cathedral.
Lunch took place within the stunning grounds of Canterbury Cathedral, inside the grand Chapter House. Students were in awe of its intricate ceiling and the historic ambiance that surrounded them.
The afternoon featured a captivating tour of Canterbury Cathedral itself. Our knowledgeable guide, Joe, shared the gripping story of Thomas Becket’s assassination and led students to the site of his former shrine. The mystery surrounding Becket’s remains, as well as the tale of Henry VIII’s attempt to erase his legacy, fascinated all who listened.
Students also had the opportunity to see the impressive tomb of the Black Prince and admire the breathtaking medieval architecture and stained glass windows. The group was particularly excited to learn that the cloisters of the cathedral had been used in the filming of the Harry Potter movies, adding a touch of cinematic magic to the visit.
The trip concluded as the students returned to school just after 3 PM, enriched with historical knowledge and unforgettable experiences. It was a day of exploration, learning, and inspiration, leaving students with a deeper appreciation of Canterbury’s significance in British history.
Here’s what one of our students, Aayat, had to say about the trip:
“I first hopped on the coach with my friend, Tahmid, and enjoyed the scenery, I even drew an image of the Kent countryside. When we did the walking tour of Canterbury, my friends and I saw plaques throughout the city and heard about the defenses of the City Walls, West Gate Tower, and Canterbury Castle. We also saw a medieval Ducking Stool, where witches and criminals were put on trial, and a Medieval hotel for pilgrims. Lunch was inside the Cathedral grounds in a huge room with an intricate ceiling called the Chapter House. Then we had the tour of the Cathedral. Our tour guide, Joe, taught us about Thomas Becket’s death and showed us where his shrine once stood. We heard how Henry VIII had attempted to destroy his bones, and how now nobody knows where the real bones of Thomas Becket are. We also saw the tomb of the Black Prince and marveled at the architecture and stained glass windows, especially the cloisters, which were used in the filming of the Harry Potter movies. We returned to school just after 3 PM, and overall I had a very good time.”
A huge thank you to all the staff and students who made this trip such a success. We look forward to more exciting educational adventures in the future!