The year is 1485 and the Tudor dynasty is just beginning….
Pupils are invited to step back in time and take part in a variety of activities, including drama and role play, as we explore the structure of Tudor society and the events surrounding the English Reformation.

Aims (Skills, Knowledge, Activity, Result)

• To encourage pupils to consider artworks as a window on the past and a basis for exploring aspects of history 

• To use artworks as stimulus for drama and role play, bringing historical events to life and encouraging a stronger understanding 

• To familiarise pupils with the structure of Tudor society and the events surrounding the English Reformation

• To provide pupils with the opportunity to make links between the past and the present
• To encourage pupils to work in co-operative groups, discussing ideas and making choices

What happens in a workshop

The session begins with pupils working in groups, relating a selection of artworks to aspects of our lives today, before we travel back in time to 1485 to witness the end of the Wars of the Roses and the beginning of the Tudor dynasty.

We examine further artworks and utilize an assortment of props as we explore the structure of society and balance of power in Tudor society; Henry VIII’s accession to the throne and the first Royal divorce.

Using drama and role play, and a combination of paired, group and whole class activities, we bring the early Tudor monarchs to life, considering their thoughts and feelings during this tumultuous time in our history.

The workshop concludes as we reflect upon the influence these historical events have on our own lives today.

Prepare for your visit

• Discuss with the children the value of experiencing real artworks through a gallery visit, and the importance of artworks as historical evidence

• It is helpful, but not essential, for pupils to have some basic knowledge of the early Tudor monarchy. The session can be used to reinforce and extend children’s knowledge of Tudor society and the lives of Henry VII and Henry VIII, or can be used as an introduction to the Tudors topic.

• Split the class into six mixed-ability groups 

What people are saying about the workshop

The children loved taking on the roles of the characters. The cheering and jeering were great fun, but also reinforced the impact these events had on the people at the time

Teacher, Green End Primary School

I liked thinking about how Henry VIII felt at different times

Pupil, Claremont Primary School