Great Fire of London Workshop - Hurstpierpoint College

Year 2 pupils were transported to the 17th century during an immersive Great Fire of London Workshop packed with hands-on activities, demonstrations, and interactive challenges.

The day began with Dressing a Household, a captivating presentation set in the home of Samuel Pepys. Children discovered how a prominent Stuart family kept up with court fashion, exploring clothing, accessories, and the household staff that supported daily life. Pupils even had the chance to try on authentic Stuart-style outfits themselves.

Action quickly followed with activities such as Mini Crossbows, where pupils learned to safely fire rubber-tipped darts, and Militia Training, which tested their skills with soft swords and shields. A detailed Arms and Armour session allowed pupils to handle replica equipment and appreciate the strength and skill required of Stuart soldiers.

Science and history combined in the Stuart Medicine and Cures demonstration, offering a fascinating glimpse into the unusual medical practices of the era. Teamwork was put to the test during the lively Bucket Chain Race, a fast-paced simulation showing how Londoners battled the Great Fire without modern firefighting tools. Teachers even joined in for an entertaining comparison of militia officers’ and firefighters’ equipment.

The day concluded with Wild Animals from the King’s Forest, where pupils examined real furs and skins from creatures once hunted by royalty.

Overall, the workshop provided an exciting and memorable journey into Stuart Britain and the dramatic events of the Great Fire of London—blending learning with creativity, curiosity, and plenty of fun.

Year 2 pupils were transported to the 17th century during an immersive Great Fire of London Workshop packed with hands-on activities, demonstrations, and interactive challenges.

The day began with Dressing a Household, a captivating presentation set in the home of Samuel Pepys. Children discovered how a prominent Stuart family kept up with court fashion, exploring clothing, accessories, and the household staff that supported daily life. Pupils even had the chance to try on authentic Stuart-style outfits themselves.

Action quickly followed with activities such as Mini Crossbows, where pupils learned to safely fire rubber-tipped darts, and Militia Training, which tested their skills with soft swords and shields. A detailed Arms and Armour session allowed pupils to handle replica equipment and appreciate the strength and skill required of Stuart soldiers.

Science and history combined in the Stuart Medicine and Cures demonstration, offering a fascinating glimpse into the unusual medical practices of the era. Teamwork was put to the test during the lively Bucket Chain Race, a fast-paced simulation showing how Londoners battled the Great Fire without modern firefighting tools. Teachers even joined in for an entertaining comparison of militia officers’ and firefighters’ equipment.

The day concluded with Wild Animals from the King’s Forest, where pupils examined real furs and skins from creatures once hunted by royalty.

Overall, the workshop provided an exciting and memorable journey into Stuart Britain and the dramatic events of the Great Fire of London—blending learning with creativity, curiosity, and plenty of fun.