About this session
Join us at the Tower of London for a deep dive CPD day exploring the Normans. Aimed at teachers of all Normans GCSE exam board specifications, this is a unique opportunity to explore William the Conqueror’s story and his mighty legacy: The White Tower.
What to expect
The day will begin with a keynote lecture by Tracy Borman, Chief Historian at Historic Royal Palaces and author of Matilda: Wife of the Conqueror, First Queen of England. In this illustrated talk, Tracy will explore the dramatic story of the events that led up to 1066, the most famous year in English history. As well as considering the role played by William the Conqueror, she will also reveal the impact that his consort, Matilda of Flanders, had in establishing the new Anglo-Norman dynasty. At the heart of the story is the Tower of London, built by William as a symbol of Norman power.
The CPD day will also include a guided tour of the White Tower, exploring the symbolic importance of this ‘Norman fist on Anglo-Saxon soil’, as well as a session investigating fascinating historical evidence associated with the Normans and the Tower of London.
Following the CPD event, teachers will have the opportunity to stay onsite to explore the Tower of London for the rest of the day.
Teachers from each participating state school will be eligible to book one complimentary 90-minute GCSE Normans learning session for their students.
Exam board links:
This CPD day is aimed at teachers of the following GCSE exam specifications:
• AQA, Paper 2: Shaping the Nation, Section B: Norman England, c.1066-c.1100.
• Pearson Edexcel, Paper 2: Period study and British depth study B1: Anglo-Saxon and Norman England, c.1060-88.
• OCR B, Component group 1: British Depth study: The Norman Conquest, 1065-1087.
Booking information
Where and when
Tower of London
Wednesday 9 July 2025, 10am-3pm
Price
Free to teachers
To book
Download our booking form below and email it to: castles@hrp.org.uk