An educational talk about the Mayan people at Cadbury World in Birmingham has been created for Key Stage 2 pupils and links to the Ancient Civilisations curriculum.
The talk uncovers the wonders of the Maya; pupils will learn all about their involvement in the early history of cocoa.
The talk is presented in Cadbury World’s themed education rooms. School groups will be introduced to the city of Chichen Itza and discover the Mayan myths and legends that claimed how humans were created.
Pupils will get to see a life-size replica of the Mayan codex, which stretches over six metres long and presents a counting system.
The group will also get to see real cocoa pods filled with the cocoa beans that were so valuable to Mayans in c. AD 900, and a replica wooden whisk they used to make a chocolate drink.
There’s a chance to dress up as a Mayan, plus the presentation features video and audio to enhance the experience.
Pupils will go away understanding the achievements of one of the earliest civilisations in a non-European society that provides contrasts with British history.
Example itinerary
School groups can follow this suggested itinerary which can include the Mayan talk. An average visit to Cadbury World lasts around three/four hours with time for refreshments and shopping, with an extra hour recommended for a talk.
On arrival, school groups can take the Cadbury World exhibition tour through the different themed zones, which lasts around one and a half hours.
Stop for a packed lunch by the outdoor play area, either at the picnic benches or under the cover of the marquee. Lunch can also be purchased in the Cadbury Café.
Spend an hour taking a one hour interactive topic talk by a member of the education team. This talk can be about the Mayan civilisation or cover other National Curriculum subjects such as Bean to Bar, The Victorians or The Aztecs.
Finish the day by taking the 4D Chocolate Adventure cinema experience, which comes complete with motion seats.
To make a school booking, visit www.cadburyworld.co.uk/schools-and-groups.
