Year 4 had a wonderful three days at Hooke Court in Dorset, enjoying an exciting residential experience centred around learning about life in Roman Britain. 

During their action-packed three-day residential visit, Year 4 pupils from Cardinal Newman Catholic School were fully immersed in all things Roman. They took part in a rich programme of hands-on learning and historical discovery, which brought their History learning to life and gave them the opportunity to step back in time to explore what daily life may have been like during the Roman period. 

As part of the visit, the children travelled to Dorchester to explore a Roman town house and climbed Maiden Castle, gaining a deeper understanding of Roman settlements and defence. They also successfully completed Roman soldier training, learning how to march, attack, and dress like a Roman soldier. 

Throughout the visit, the children developed a wide range of practical skills through activities inspired by Roman life. They cooked their own lunch using Roman recipes, wrote their names in Roman style, designed and created mosaics, crafted exquisite jewellery, and wove fine cloths using traditional methods. These experiences helped the children understand the journey from raw materials to finished products. 

The pupils were also fascinated by Roman engineering, exploring the ingenuity behind structures such as aqueducts and onagers, and developing an appreciation of Roman innovation and problem-solving. 

Throughout their stay, the children were confident, curious, and enthusiastic. They represented Cardinal Newman Catholic School brilliantly, embracing new challenges, supporting one another, and showing a real enthusiasm for learning. The residential was a highly enriching experience that deepened and strengthened their understanding of Roman Britain, bringing their History lessons to life in a memorable and meaningful way. 

Well done, Year 4 — you were fantastic, and this was a truly outstanding and enriching History experience. 

For more photos, please click here.