Robins have enjoyed being Roman soldiers today, as they marched around Lunt, the archaeological Roman Fort in Coventry.
Upon arrival, they were greeted by Frances who demanded a password to see whether we were friends or enemies. All the class practised soldier drills and learnt marching techniques and vocabulary.
Next everyone put on tunicas and were taught how to use a gladius and shield correctly. After that, the children marched to the gyrus to brush up on their army formation, using shields as a barrier to defend enemies. This is the only known gyrus in the Roman Empire so we were very privileged to see and stand in it! Once the children had perfected their technique, they were taken by surprise and attached by the enemy (Mrs Parry, Mrs Sargant and Miss Sargant), whom they surrounded… until they surrendered! As the children had been so well behaved, they were allowed to battle in pairs!
We were lucky with the weather and all enjoyed eating our lunch outside in the sunshine!
After lunch, Robins marched outside the fort to become Celts. They discovered how Romans designed the fort with an “ankle breaker” ditch and scattered caltrops in the grass.
Everyone was excited to go up the stairs to see the view that the Romans had from the fort. We heard all about Boudicca and her revolt.
We visited the site of the barracks where soldiers lived and heard how they slept in bunk beds, and all washed and went to the toilet together! We also saw what Romans used instead of toilet paper (which was also shared!)
Finally, the children went up into the granary to learn about the armour that soldiers wore. Shayla and Christos dressed up in full costume!
Everyone really enjoyed the day and absorbed lots of new information by being immersed in a full Roman experience. There was plenty of active listening and concentration!
Frances the leader, was extremely impressed with the behaviour so well done to Robins who were a real credit to Bells Farm school.
