Free teaching resources and A-Z activities launched by Westminster Abbey

While the historic building is closed to visitors at the moment, teachers and parents can make use of free resources covering a variety of subjects across different key stages. 

Examples include:

• the History of Coronations for KS3 History
• Love: a Christian Reflection for KS4 Religious Education
• an Introduction to Coronations for KS1 History.

Each resource is downloadable and includes an overview and learning objectives, as well as different activities such as pupils creating their own crown. 

Staff have also made it possible to take virtual tours inside Westminster Abbey during which you can view treasures including the Shrine of St Edward the Confessor, the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, the High Altar, and the Coronation Chair in unprecedented detail. There are a number of other tours linked to subjects and Key Stages such as a Worship and Daily Life virtual visit in which students can explore 12 objects that have played a part in the Abbey’s worshipping life. 

There’s also the option to book a video-conference session led by the Abbey’s education officers. Students can talk to them live, on a topic of your choice. 

And for primary-aged pupils, there’s a special A-Z of activities available, for free, on the Abbey’s website. 

Each letter comes with an activity to download including navigation games, secret sign language and fun things to make. They explore more than 1,000 years of faith and history, teaching children all about the Abbey including about the building itself and the many events held there over the years. 

For example: 

• A is for Abbey: pupils are invited to look at a picture of Westminster Abbey and answer a question about its shape before playing navigation games using a compass at home. 
• B is for Benedictine Monks: children are encouraged to try to communicate different modern foods without speaking, creating their own movements and gestures to help. 

Once children have completed the activities for every letter of the alphabet they can download a certificate to recognise their achievement in finishing the exercises.