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Politics, power and the path to peace

About this session

Key stage 4 and key stage 5 | Areas of learning: Politics, History | Topic: Government & Politics of Northern Ireland, The Troubles | Session Type: Route-based and classroom-based

What role has Hillsborough Castle played in the modern political history of Northern Ireland?

Hillsborough Castle has been a place inextricably linked to the politics of the day since it was built in Georgian times.  On a tour of the historic spaces where key discussions were held and agreements signed, students will uncover the pivotal role it has played in modern Northern Irish history, as well as exploring the background to the Troubles using a range of source material.

Learning objectives

Students will:

• Learn that Hillsborough Castle has been linked to the politics of the time since it was first built in the Georgian period.
• Learn which agreements have been signed and negotiated here and explore the spaces where these talks took place.
• Explore the principles and implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and the changes made to it by subsequent agreements.
• Explore the idea of power and the attributes of democracy.
• Investigate the origins of conflict and how it can be portrayed in the media.

National Curriculum links

This session supports:

• Increased understanding of the governance of Northern Ireland after Partition.
• An increase in students' awareness of the historical background leading up to 1998, including the Anglo-Irish Agreement.
• Students understanding and knowledge of the government of Northern Ireland since 1994, including devolution.
• Students understanding and knowledge of the principles, content and implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and the changes made to it by subsequent agreements.

Booking Information

Availability
Thursdays only
10.30, 13.00

Duration
90 minutes

Capacity
Up to 30 students

Price
Free

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