How did Henry VIII change the way we worship? - Teacher notes

Henry VIII's reign marked a pivotal moment in British religious history, initiating a major shift in the country's worship practices. Prior to his rule, England was predominantly Catholic, with both the monarchy and the majority of its subjects adhering to the Catholic faith. The unit of study explores the significant transition that occurred under Henry VIII's leadership, which led to the establishment of the Church of England and England's departure from Catholicism. This transformation had profound and lasting impacts on the religious landscape of the nation.

As part of the educational process, pupils are expected to delve into the historical context of this change. They are tasked with understanding the reasons behind Henry VIII's decision to break away from the Catholic Church. Year 6 pupils are specifically instructed to prepare and present their findings to Year 5 pupils, articulating the key points in a written format as provided in their worksheets. Following the presentation, Year 5 pupils are encouraged to express their comprehension of the material, having listened to their peers and reviewed the initial information. The central question driving both the presentation and the subsequent summary is the inquiry into why Henry VIII chose to sever ties with the Catholic Church, an event that forever altered the way in which the English people would worship.