Lower Four Conquer Goodrich Castle in Blazing Heat

Over three scorching June days, our pupils enjoyed a fascinating visit to Goodrich Castle as part of their study of Norman castles and medieval England.

With the groups visiting during one of the hottest spells on record, the trip provided not only a valuable learning opportunity but also an excellent test of everyone’s resilience in the heat!

Goodrich Castle, one of the finest surviving medieval castles in England, offered pupils the chance to explore many of the features they have been studying in their history lessons. As they walked through the impressive gatehouse, climbed the towers and looked out across the surrounding countryside, they were able to see first-hand how castles were designed for both defence and awe. Suddenly, terms such as battlements, keeps and curtain walls felt more real than they ever could from the pages of a textbook.

The pupils were a credit to the school throughout the trip. They asked thoughtful questions, engaged enthusiastically with the historical site and demonstrated excellent behaviour. We were particularly impressed by their curiosity and willingness to explore every corner of the castle, even when the temperature suggested that getting to the shop for an ice cream might have been a more attractive option.

The visit helped bring classroom learning to life and provided everyone with a greater appreciation of how castles functioned as military strongholds, homes and symbols of power. The pupils returned with plenty of knowledge, memories and perhaps a renewed appreciation for modern buildings with air conditioning.