What is a castle? - Presentation

Castles are a significant part of history, particularly for pupils at Key Stage 1 who are encouraged to understand the complexity of past lives and relationships through the National Curriculum. A castle is a fortified structure that was built to provide safety and security for those inside. Throughout history, castles have been the homes of lords and ladies, as well as the backdrop for many beloved stories. They were designed with various features to protect the inhabitants, such as moats, drawbridges, and portcullises. Understanding the purpose of castles and identifying their distinct parts is a key aspect of the curriculum, which also aims to instill an awareness of local history by acknowledging that many students will live near a castle.

The educational journey into the world of castles includes exploring the roles of different people who lived in and around these structures, such as knights, peasants, spinners, and constables. Students are encouraged to engage with the topic by creating timelines, handling artefacts, and observing representations of castles to develop their understanding of chronology and causation. Vocabulary such as 'turret' and 'keep' is introduced, enhancing their historical language and helping them to articulate their knowledge about the special features of a castle. The learning process is supported by visual aids, discussions, and interactive activities, such as watching educational videos and engaging in classroom conversations to consolidate their learning about castles and their significance in history.