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Once upon a time

About this session

Reception | Subject: Literacy, PSHE | Topics: Historic environment | Session Type: Route-based

Can your children help a nervous new monarch as they explore the palace? Children will find clues and work together to teach their new friend how to be more confident, even when things are scary and new.

Led by a costumed presenter, this interactive and multi-sensory session encourages children to develop their communication and language skills. The historic palace gives children opportunities to experience a rich language environment and develop their confidence and skills in expressing themselves.

What to expect?

  • This 45-minute session takes place mainly indoors in the palace. There will be a mixture of standing and sitting down. Please note that there is a large staircase used to get to the first floor. Pupils should be accompanied at all times.
  • Teachers will be asked at the start of the session about pupils' previous knowledge, learning needs and access requirements. 
  • The session will be led by a historical character in costume who will interact with pupils in a lively and responsive way. 
  • Your pupils will be encouraged to take an active part in the session through songs, movement and simple drama activities 
  • Teachers will be required to actively support the facilitator and engage with the session. 

Learning objectives

Children will:

  • Explore the palace in a route-based session.
  • Engage with stories, characters, buildings and objects at Hampton Court Palace, discovering the world around them.
  • Learn new vocabulary and develop skills needed to retell a story.
  • Create, play and explore in their own unique way as they visit Hampton Court Palace.

EYFS framework links

This session supports:

  • Speaking: Children express themselves effectively, showing awareness of listeners’ needs. They use past, present and future forms accurately.
  • Listening and attention: Children listen to stories and respond to what they hear with relevant comments, questions or actions.
  • Understanding: Children follow instructions involving several ideas or actions. They answer ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions about their experiences and in response to stories or events. 

Booking information

Availability - Summer term only 

Wednesday 6 May
Friday 15 May
Wednesday 3 June
Thursday 18 June
Friday 3 July
Thursday 9 July

Session times
10.30 & 12.30

Duration
45 minutes

Capacity
Up to 35 pupils

Price
Free

Please note a lunchroom will be made available for your group at 11.30am.

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