Wrest Park has launched a new Roman-themed Discovery Visit aimed at Key Stage 2 pupils studying the Roman Empire.
The new experience takes place inside Wrest Park’s Archaeological Collections Store and will see schools take a journey through the working environment before getting hands-on with replica and real Roman objects.
Wrest Park offers tailored learning outcomes, so that classes can learn all about Roman life and culture without actually having to visit a Roman site, meaning a visit can be made at any time of year.
During the visit, children will handle both real and replica artefacts in the store, take a guided tour of the Wroxeter Roman City aisle and then finish the experience in the education room.
It’s here that the class will make replica Roman coins using clay, which they will then be able to take home or back to school, where post-visit discussions or lessons can take place.
Children will also be encouraged to ask questions relating to the Romans.
Education visits officer, Chris Madeley, explained, “The Education Department is really excited to be using the Archaeological Store Rooms at Wrest Park for the first time with school groups.
“As this heritage site is predominantly known for its beautiful parkland and Georgian mansion, this new Discovery Visit will offer something unique and different for students.”
Lyndsey Giles, head of year 5 at Bushmead Primary School in Luton, commented, “The children were engaged when they were looking at different Roman artefacts around the tables, they also loved making the clay coins.”
Further information
Wrest Park’s Archaeological Collections Store houses over 153,000 historical artefacts spanning over 2,000 years of history.
It is the first time schools have been able to access the Collections Store.
Schools can also explore the remainder of Wrest Park’s extensive grounds, following the Discovery Visit.
For more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wrest-park.
