Courses for schools
Students and tutors working together |
Tasting medieval food |
The educational policy of the Trust is determined by its rare combination of resources: the site itself; the timber-framed houses; and the archaeological artefacts belonging to the place.
We offer courses for all ages. They are intensively-supported and are designed for small numbers of participants, who are given the opportunity to work creatively with primary evidence. This enables everyone to contribute to the making of history.
Our adult courses include general interest courses and academic courses, which are of particular value to Sixth Formers preparing for university. These courses are listed in our Calendar of events.
The programme consists of a course for Year 6 students given at the school by The Blackden Trust, followed by a visit to Blackden by selected students.
The selection is made by a combination of the recommendation of teachers, our observation during the school session and initiative shown by the individual student.
Creating a timeline of hats and pots |
'Everything had a special story from the Tig cup with its three handles to stop you eating and drinking at the same time to the tankard with its flat bottom to stop it falling over.' 'We loved dressing up in a variety of hats from different periods - the metal helmet was really heavy!'
Students attend a day at Blackden with a parent, when they engage in activities that introduce them to historical and archaeological skills.
Helping to wash excavated pot sherds |
'Very interesting afternoon. Child friendly and informative.' 'All the history was really interesting.' 'I enjoyed the pot washing and seeing the diggers dig.'
Discovering the science of archaeology |
Courses for secondary school students are developed in conjunction with each individual school, and have been successful in extending the experience of Gifted and Talented students.
'I enjoyed learning lots of new and interesting things.' 'A brilliant day, really interesting.' 'As well as learning a lot, I laughed most of the day, due to the friendly atmosphere.'
Read the reports of our courses for schools.
Our adult academic courses have been developed to give Sixth Formers at taste of university learning. Read the reports of these courses.
Contact The Blackden Trust if you would like us to develop a course for your students.