Education session
What is history?
This session, aimed at Years 5, 6 and 7, helps students understand how historians work out what happened in the past.
Education session
Treasures
This session aimed at Year 3 and Year 4 students looks at what 'treasures' there are at The National Archives, and what makes a treasure.
- Age range
- Key stage 2 (Ages 7–11)
- Date
- All year
- Locations
- Online, At The National Archives
About this image
Domesday chest with Domesday Book on top, in two volumes. Catalogue reference: E 31/4
About this session
Time period
- Cross period
Theme
- Archive skills
What to expect in the workshop at The National Archives
In the onsite workshop students will explore what makes a document from the past special, or a ‘treasure.’ Is it just about being gold and shiny? Could the only surviving document about a Victorian child be more valuable than one of hundreds of images of Elizabeth I? This session develops skills of observation and enquiry though careful investigation of historical sources, identifying key features such as date, and considering their value.
The two-hour workshop is led by an experienced history educator in an inspiring learning space at The National Archives in Kew. Students get to view a range of original documents including a Tudor wax seal, a telegram sent to mark the Moon Landing and a Victorian child’s prison record. The workshop is highly interactive, incorporating storytelling and group discussion.
What to expect in the online workshop
In this online workshop your students will investigate what makes a document from the past special or a ‘treasure’. Is it just about being gold and shiny? Could the only surviving document about a Victorian child be more valuable than one of hundreds of images of Elizabeth I? This session develops skills of observation and enquiry though careful investigation of historical sources, identifying key features such as date, and considering their value.
The one-hour online session in your classroom is led by an experienced history educator. You only need a microphone, large screen and webcam to take part. It is very interactive with activities that encourage students to discuss their ideas, working in pairs and table groups. We will provide high-quality materials in advance to be used during the session to support your students’ learning and engagement.
Note: we will adapt the timing of the workshop to fit with your lesson times.
Contact us
If you need any help with your booking, please get in touch.
- Telephone
- 0203 908 9162
- educationbookings@nationalarchives.gov.uk
Key details
- Locations
-
- Online
- At The National Archives
- Date
- All year
- Price
- Free
- Duration
-
- Online: 1 hour
- At The National Archives: 2 hours
- Age range
- Key stage 2 (Ages 7–11)
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Sensing the archives
This workshop programme is designed for students who are blind or visually impaired. Students use tactile props and audio to explore documents.
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Introduction to document research
In this interactive workshop, students develop skills in document analysis and strengthen their understanding of how history is constructed.