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Knights and Castles KS1

three toy knights knitted from wool

Step into the magical world of knights, castles and dragons as pupils come to Sir George's rescue. 

Sir George is in trouble. His castle has crumbled, his armour is muddled and his squire has vanished. In this playful KS1 workshop, pupils become part of the adventure as they help solve the mystery and learn what it takes to become a medieval squire. 

This workshop is designed to support early historical understanding, speaking and listening, imaginative play and collaborative learning. 

Continue the quest before or after your visit with our Knights and Castles Learning Resources for free videos, images and audio files to use in the classroom. 

Royal Armouries Museum

Workshop

EYFS, KS1

90 Minutes

£5 Per Pupil

Curriculum focus

This workshop supports EYFS and KS1 learning through storytelling, role play, historical vocabulary, speaking and listening, and early understanding of the past.

  • English (storytelling): pupils listen to, discuss and retell a traditional tale, joining in with predictable phrases, actions and repeated story patterns. 
  • English (speaking and listening):  pupils respond to characters, answer questions, share ideas, create story characters and take part in group discussion. 
  • History: pupils are introduced to medieval life through knights, castles, squires, armour and the role of castles for protection and defence.
  • Physical development: armour handling, movement, role play and castle building encourages controlled movement, coordination and teamwork.
  • EYFS communication and language: younger pupils develop listening, understanding and speaking through interactive storytelling, repeated phrases, character responses, questioning and group discussion. 

What to expect

George and the dragon storytelling

Pupils become story detectives and help piece together the mystery of Sir George’s ruined castle. Using puppets, props, rhythm, repetition and actions, they take part in an interactive retelling of George and the Dragon.

Sir George's squire training

Pupils join Sir George as new squires and help put his muddled armour back together. They learn how squires helped knights, practise courtly greetings, and get hands-on with pieces of armour. 

Castle building finale 

To finish, pupils work together to rebuild Sir George’s castle whilst learning key castle features such as the keep and defensive walls. This collaborative finale gives pupils a hands-on way to apply new vocabulary, practise teamwork and celebrate saving the day. 

If your pupils manage to fulfil all of George’s wishes then he may just perform a little knight jive in full armour to celebrate.

Gallery Links

Horses with armour and men wearing armour in a museum gallery
The War Gallery

War Gallery

(Early War)

Explore how the history of warfare has changed from the early days of hand-to-hand combat to today’s technology-based warfare, including our new display on the Second World War.

Visit the War Gallery

a couple stop to admire and examine a shining armour with a skirt that once belonged to Henry VIII
The Tournament Gallery

Tournament Gallery

(Medieval and Tudor)

Experience a new display celebrating The Field of Cloth of Gold, featuring Henry VIII’s armours made for one of the most amazing sporting and political events ever staged.

 

Visit the Tournament Gallery

Book Now

When you email us, please provide the following information:

  • Name and address of school, organisation, or home educated group
  • First, second, and third choice of date
  • Number of pupils and number of adults
  • If you would like to visit the museum shop
  • If you require coach parking
  • Any other additional information you’d like us to know (e.g special education needs) 

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. 

Learning packs and resources

Education Visit Pack 2025-2026 (pdf, 576KB)

Contact our communications team if you require documents in an alternative format.

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