By encouraging pupils to interact with the experts and artefacts behind the texts and sources they study in class, Berkhamsted brings history to life, allowing pupils to learn alongside peers in an interactive learning environment. Most recently, we invited Ben Kane (author and Roman Empire expert) to immerse Year 9 and 10 pupils in the history of ancient Rome.
Ben’s first talk, directed at Year 10, was a humorous and interesting discussion of Roman practices, fashions, and daily life. From the food they ate to the clothes they wore, pupils leapt into the past and discovered what ancient life was like. “It was really surprising to see how Roman life was different to ours!” said one pupil after the presentation.
It was soon time for the Year 9s to hear about Roman soldiers. Mr Allen (Head of Classics) hoped the talk would give pupils a taste of what they could discover if they pursued Classics later in their education. Mr Allen introduced the session by exclaiming, “Whether you’re already interested in the Romans, or you’ve never heard much about them before, I’m sure that hearing from Ben will spark your interest in the topic!”
By offering pupils the chance to get outside of the classroom and into an interactive learning environment, pupils become innovative, confident, and adventurous learners.
A huge thanks to Mr Allen for organising the session, and to Ben for keeping pupils on the edge of their seats throughout these engaging talks!