How to thrive and survive in the Tudor Court
About this session
Key stage 3 | Subject: History | Topics: Tudors | Session type: Route-based – Henry VIII’s Apartments
Step beyond the famous rhyme and explore the real lives of Henry VIII’s queens. This route-based session uses the historical evidence of Hampton Court Palace to reveal how each of Henry VIII’s wives navigated the high-stakes game of court life.
Students will explore the spaces at Hampton Court where the queens roamed and consider the best way to honour each queen’s legacy. In this interactive session, they’ll explore power and survival in a world governed by shifting alliances and ever-changing rules. A perfect blend of history and critical thinking - designed to inspire curiosity and a deeper understanding of these six extraordinary women.
Learning objectives:
Students will:
- Consider what made each queen unique and the legacy she left behind.
- Apply empathy to explore key events and experiences from the queens’ lives, linking them directly to the spaces and historical evidence at Hampton Court Palace.
- Understand the qualities and strategies Tudor queens needed to ‘thrive and survive’ in these turbulent times.
- Explore how court rules, feminine power, and the complexities of marriage shaped both the successes and downfalls of Henry VIII’s wives.
What to expect
- The session will be led by an historical character in costume who will interact with students in a lively and responsive way.
- Your group will be led to different outdoor and indoor locations around the palace.
- Your students will be encouraged to take an active part in the session through activities and questioning.
- Teachers will be required to actively support the facilitator and engage with the session.
National Curriculum links
This session supports:
- The development of Church, state and society in Britain 1509-1745.
- Understanding historical concepts such as continuity and change, cause and consequence, similarity, difference and significance, and using them to make connections, draw contrasts, analyse trends and frame historically valid questions.
- Understanding how people’s lives have shaped this nation and how Britain has influenced and been influenced by the wider world.
Booking information
Availability
Wednesday - Friday (available from 15 April 2026 - 17 July 2026)
10:30 and 13:00
This session is also available on our Schools only Tuesdays
Duration
75 minutes
Capacity
Up to 35 students
Price
£110 plus admission