Key Stage 2
View our current schools programme on the main page.
As an alternative to a museum visit, we’re offering paid-for virtual programmes based on some of our most popular events.
For more information, enquiries and bookings email our Norwich Bookings Coordinator at norwichcastle.bookings@norfolk.gov.uk, or call 01603 493636 .
Events
Visit us for immersive museum-based events in which you’ll meet different characters and take part in a range of activities.
10am – 2pm and £5 per pupil (unless otherwise stated). Minimum fees apply. Due to the Castle Keep redevelopment project, we currently have a maximum of 60 students per day.
Please see the current schools programme for up-to-date information on individual events.
A Day with the Romans and Iceni
Norfolk was once part of the lands of the Celtic Iceni tribe, but everything changed in 43AD, when the Romans invaded the country. The Romans fought with many tribes and won many battles - but they did not fight the Iceni. The Iceni made peace and agreed to pay a tax to Rome. However, in 60AD, the Iceni rebelled…
Meet characters from Boudica’s time plus a modern curator and archaeologist to learn about the rebellion and the contrasting cultures of the Iceni and Romans.
The Norfolk Archaeological Trust runs school visits at the heart of Romano-British Norfolk: Venta Icenorum - or as we know it today, Caistor Roman Town. Just four miles from Norwich, this site is the perfect partner to the Castle Museum's Romans and Iceni programme. Visit the Norfolk Archaeological Trust website for more information.
Ancient Egypt: Discovery and Debate
Egypt in the 1860s: one of a team of archaeologists has uncovered the tomb of the High Priest, Ankh Hor, and is excited to share the find with the world. But not everyone thinks that uncovering the tombs of the dead is a good idea... Meet a 19th-century archaeologist, a modern museum conservator, a 19th-century campaigner and a modern-day jewellery-maker and discuss their differing points of view.
Please note: The Egyptian gallery is now closed for the Keep redevelopment project, and artefacts have been relocated to the Decorative Arts gallery.
Ancient Civilisations: Farming to Philosophy
Much of what we take for granted each day would be very different or might not even exist if it was not for the achievements and advances of ancient civilisations such as the ancient Greeks, the ancient Sumerians, those of the Indus valley and others. You will explore four of the key achievements of these civilisations: farming; writing; building; and philosophy
A Day with the Anglo-Saxons and Vikings
What was life like in Anglo-Saxon and Viking times and how do we know about it? Meet costumed characters mourning the death of Thurweald, an Anglo-Saxon warrior. What objects, stories and possessions should travel with him into the afterlife?
Please note: the Anglo-Saxon and Viking gallery is closed during the Castle Keep redevelopment project so this event will not visit the gallery.
Mystery of Prehistory
Meet an archaeologist and use history detective skills to explore and sort genuine Neolithic tools. Learn about daily life 6000 years ago and meet costumed characters from Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age times. The day also includes time to see our stunning Iron Age objects in the Boudica gallery.
Latin
Meet a Roman soldier and learn the Latin for his armour, weapons, tactics, orders and commands. With a Roman citizen, explore real and replica Roman objects and learn the Latin words for them. Use Latin adjectives to describe Roman objects whilst exploring the Romans gallery. Re-enact The Three Little Pigs play in Latin. Also available for KS3.
Marvellous Medieval Maths
Important guests are coming for a feast, and the household is frantically trying to prepare. Help four characters solve their problems using mathematics - numbers, statistics, geometry, and measuring skills.
Please note: this event will not run at the Castle during the Castle Keep redevelopment. An adapted Tudor-themed event called Remaking the Mansion will be available at Strangers’ Hall instead - see further details.
Crime and Punishment
1.5 hours, morning only, £3.50 per pupil.
Meet a prisoner from the Castle’s past, learn about Norwich Castle’s centuries as a county gaol, and handle real and replica punishment objects.
Please note: this is an adapted version of the event while the dungeons, Shirehall courtroom and prisoners’ tunnel are closed to visitors.
Medieval Christmas
Join in the preparations for a medieval Christmas as we travel back to the year 1121. Meet costumed characters and celebrate the festive season medieval-style. Get to grips with crafts, dance, storytelling and arms and armour. A perfect historical end-of-term celebration and learning opportunity.
Please note: this event will not run during the Castle Keep redevelopment. For KS1 groups, you may be interested in our Christmas at Strangers’ Hall event.
Missing Treasure (literacy)
2 hours, £4 per pupil
A precious object has gone missing from the museum. Learn how to be a newspaper reporter – interview key witnesses, research the incident and produce an informative report.
Please note: this event is currently paused due to the Castle Keep redevelopment project.
Workshops
History
35 minutes, £2.50 per pupil, minimum fee £37.50, max 30 pupils
- Egyptian, Roman, Anglo-Saxon & Viking or Medieval objects: Handle real and replica objects and learn about life in the past.
- Digging & Dustbins: Have a go at being archaeologists, ‘dig up’ objects from sand trays, record finds, and look at what people’s rubbish tells us about the past.
- First World War workshops: Handle authentic and replica soldiers’ and nurses’ uniforms and equipment. Read their letters and original documents unique to the Norfolk Royal Regiment.
Art and Design
1.5 hours, £3.50 per pupil, minimum fee £52.50, max 30 pupils
- Look at Me! Portraits in Focus KS1 & 2: Investigate portraits, learn about pose, facial expressions and enjoy practical activities. Please note: Due to the Castle Keep redevelopment project, this workshop is currently paused..
- Looking at Landscapes KS2: Be inspired by our collection of landscapes. Explore seascapes, rural, and urban scenes and create your own piece of landscape art. Please note: Due to the Castle Keep redevelopment project, this workshop is currently paused.