The Tower of London

During Year 7s recent visit to the Tower Of London they were able to see one of the most famous castle keeps in the world.  It was built, to awe, subdue and terrify Londoners and to deter foreign invaders. It’s now an iconic symbol of London and Britain and one of the world’s premier tourist attractions. The White Tower’s fearsome exterior conceals some hidden gems, such as Henry VIII’s armour and the beautiful 11th-century Chapel of St John the Evangelist. They also saw the Crown Jewels. They are the greatest working collection of Crown Jewels in the world and priceless symbols of British monarchy. As ceremonial and symbolic objects, the Crown Jewels have been associated for centuries with the coronation of English Kings and Queens.

Year 7 were also able to learn much of the Tower’s history such as the animals that have lived there. The Royal menageries started in Europe during the early medieval times when strange beasts were offered as royal gifts. Owning rare and impressive animals was a sign of status and power. It would have been the first time people had ever encountered many of these mysterious animals. There were Tigers, leopards, a puma, a grizzly bear, a polar bear (before he escaped), anacondas, crocodiles, and many more over the years.  

Year 7 will now develop this work as they read about the development of castles from the Norman periods onwards. A good time was had on a glorious sunny day. Year 7 were even complimented for their impeccable behavior by two of the Yeoman Guard (Beefeaters). Although we always expect this on history trips it is still nice to receive such high praise indeed.  All historians, including Mr Sheehan and Miss Guertin  returned safely from the Tower and were a credit to Gosfield School.

Mr R Pilsworth, Head of History