To enhance their understanding of Tudor History, AS historians set off for London to meet with the UK's leading historians and to examine the sites at the heart of their Tudor studies. The students were joined by former Plymouth College teacher, Mr Ashfield, who came out of retirement to make the trip possible.
First stop was an excellent tour of the Tower of London. Historians at the Tower explained the significance of the site as the heart of Tudor power and politics. Bloody Tower earned its name with good reason and students were able to examine the implements of torture and prison cells that gained a range of Tudor monarchs the confessions for which they were looking.
From the Tower, the Lower Sixth headed to a series of lectures given by different experts. Dr David Starkey analysed the King's Great Matter by questioning whether Henry VIII's divorce of Catherine of Aragon was for religious or political reasons. Professor Bernard evaluated Henry's portrayal of himself, suggesting he deliberately downplayed his role in running the state in favour of Wolsey and Cromwell, while Professor Hutton explored Henry's foreign policy.
With much to think about, the students finished their studies with a lecture and tour of Hampton Court Palace, home to Wolsey but then also Henry and his entourage. No trip to Hampton Court would be complete without a race around the maze, won by L6B.
The trip was the very best preparation for the Tudor exam in the summer - the students are hoping for questions on Wolsey, Cromwell and Henry's foreign policy!
.jpg&command_2=resize&height_2=85 "Smeaton’s Tower ‘lights up’ Year 2 Hoe and Barbican visit")
