DESCRIPTION
Find out more about the different types of medieval soldier, their arms and armour. Learn what characteristics the Welsh of the period were said to have had and discover why the Welsh bowmen were such a formidable force.
DURATION
The workshop will last about 1 hour. A guided tour of the House lasts approximately 50 minutes. Time will be allowed for lunch and to visit other parts of the site (c.f. what’s included below).
By the end of the session, your pupils will have:
- Learnt about the Norman invasion of Wales and how the Welsh Princes responded to it.
- Learnt how a Welsh army could attack a castle.
- Learnt that the way land owned by the Welsh Princes was split between heirs and the impact this had on their power.
- Learnt how this often caused the Welsh Princes to fight amongst themselves.
- Learnt some of the characteristics of the Welsh people (ref Gerald of Wales).
- Learnt about different types of armour and weapons from the time and how they were used.
- Learnt about the difference between the common soldier in South Wales and English Marcher Lords.
- Learnt about the significance of the Welsh bowmen in a medieval army.
- Seen depictions of medieval life and history in the decoration of the Castle (guided tour).
Cynefin
Humanities (PS 2-5 – Wales)
- Enquiry, exploration, and investigation inspire curiosity about the world, it’s past, present, and future.
- Events and human experiences are complex and are perceived, interpreted, and represented in different ways.
- Our natural world is diverse and dynamic, influenced by processes and human actions.
What Else is Included in Your Visit
- A guided tour of the House will take children around some of the highly decorated, colourful rooms that were designed by the architect, William Burges. His designs are from the Victorian period but reflect Burges’ vision of how the interior of a medieval Castle would have been.
- Use of the Audio Guide which has been written especially for children, downloadable in advance.
- Access to areas of the Grounds including the Keep, the Battlements and Wartime Shelters.
- A Visit to Firing Line – Museum of the Welsh Soldier (Military Museum in the Interpretation Centre). Please note: Firing Line is independently managed and any activities offered are not a part of Cardiff Castle’s Education Service. Visits may not be possible on certain days, or may incur an additional charge.
Telephone
029 2087 8110
education@cardiff.gov.uk
Enquiry: The Normans / Medieval
Please let our Education Office know if you have any questions about the The Normans / Medieval workshop.