Bring Tudor foreign policy to life in the Tournament gallery, where Henry VIII's own suits of armour take centre stage. This workshop turns spectacle into evidence, as pupils investigate how Henry used war, diplomacy and pageantry to project power through his reign.
This 90-minute workshop includes a structured gallery tour, designed to build the political narrative through key moments and turning points, and a hands-on investigation where pupils use objects as evidence to make judgements.
Expect big questions, strong debate and clear exam-ready focus. How successful was Henry's foreign policy? Your pupils will decide.
Gallery Tour
Pupils will be given a guided tour of the Tournament Gallery, home to several jewels of Henry VIII's armoury. They will follow a structured narrative of Tudor foreign policy, from the inspiration Henry VIII took from Henry V, to the shifting alliances and conflicts of the 1540s. Throughout the tour, pupils will be prompted to consider how England projected power despite being a minor state, the relationship between military technology and political authority, and how far image and display could substitute for real success.
Object Handling
Pupils explore objects covering the key phases of Henry's reign. Using structured discussion questions, pupils will rotate through themed tables: early war aims, 1520s diplomacy and later military change, evaluating what objects can reveal about Henry's ambitions, how war and military power shaped foreign policy and the continuity and change through his reign. Hands-on, enquiry based learning.
This workshop is ideal for:
(Medieval and Tudor)
Tournaments were once legendary throughout Europe as sporting competitions for the rich, famous and powerful. See the highly decorated essential items worn, used and exchanged as gifts by King Henry VIII and other nobleman. This gallery evokes the colourful and lavish spectacle of these glorious events, and a new display celebrates the history of modern jousting.
When you email us, please provide the following information:
Find our Education Bookings Terms and Conditions
Email: educate.leeds@armouries.org.uk
Phone: 07785 692443
Due to the high volume of enquiries we receive, please only call us if you have already booked a visit and your enquiry is urgent.
Education Visit Pack 2025-2026 (pdf, 576KB)
Contact our communications team if you require documents in an alternative format.
