What is a castle? - Teacher notes

A castle is an imposing historical structure that often conjures images of medieval times, knights, and royalty. In an educational setting, children can be introduced to the concept of castles by watching an informative video that provides an overview of what castles are and their significance in medieval history. After viewing the video, pupils are encouraged to share five things they have learned about castles, which helps consolidate their understanding of these fascinating fortifications.

The lesson then delves deeper into the social aspects of castle life, exploring who resided within the castle walls and the hierarchical structure of medieval society. This includes learning about the different roles and statuses of individuals who lived inside the castle compared to those who lived outside. Additionally, the lesson prompts pupils to consider the modern-day status of castles, acknowledging that while many historic castles now stand in ruins, there are still some that serve as residences. A prime example is Windsor Castle, one of the most renowned inhabited castles in the world. By focusing on Windsor Castle, students can gain insight into the continuity of castle use from the past to the present.