History Rewards Trip to Auckland Castle

December 2019

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30 students in Year 7, who were all chosen for their outstanding effort and behaviour in lessons, have recently enjoyed a History rewards trip to Auckland Castle.

Students learned about the important role of the Prince Bishops of Durham and how Auckland Castle was one of their primary homes, where they came to hunt and entertain. Students were surprised to learn that the bishops had the power to raise an army, create their own laws, and even mint their own coins; they truly helped to shape the country we live in today.

Students were given a tour of the castle and studied historic plans to see how it has developed over time. Linked to their current learning about the Norman invasion, the group looked into the ways in which the castle was built for defence; they also toured the grounds to consider the location and how it successfully kept out the enemy. The group also learned about the history of St Peter’s Chapel, which remains the private chapel of the Bishop of Durham and is regularly used for services, and took part in activities to estimate the age of the stained glass windows using their fingers.

As part of the tour, students heard about the gradual modernisation of the castle and chapel, including the most recent developments that have allowed the castle to be successfully opened to tourists and for use as a luxury events venue.

They visited the Grand Hall where they heard about the extravagant meals and dining parties that were held there. Students were fascinated to hear about the much-prized pineapple centrepieces, which were so rare that they were worth the equivalent of £5,000. They also learned how Bishop Auckland was the first place to try and grow their own pineapples!