What did the Romans find when they first arrived in Britain? - Teacher notes

When the Romans first arrived in Britain, they encountered a land rich in natural resources that had been hitherto tapped by the Iron Age inhabitants. Among these resources were valuable materials such as iron ore, tin, and gold, which had been discovered and utilised by the local populations. This unit provides pupils with the opportunity to draw upon their previous historical studies of the Iron Age to understand the context of the Roman arrival.

Despite the presence of these resources, the Romans held a perception of Britain as a backward place, inhabited by people they considered primitive. Teachers are encouraged to use timelines to help students identify the historical period under study and compare visual representations of Iron Age Britain with those of contemporary Rome. By examining images from both societies, which existed concurrently, pupils can discuss the differences they observe and contemplate life in both areas. This comparison also serves to explore Roman attitudes towards the Iron Age Britons, setting the stage for understanding the cultural and societal changes that occurred from the end of the Iron Age to the conclusion of Roman occupation in Britain.