On Tuesday 8 October Mr Bates and Miss Teague took five Year 8 students to the Norman study day at The Royal Armouries. We started that day by examining the thousands of guns and swords on display that were used throughout wars and battles over many centuries. The most interesting and disturbing find was armour for small babies and toddlers.
We also watched a Saxon vs Norman fight where two brave men were grappling with their swords and shields. After lunch was the most exciting part of the day for the boys, the ‘Have a go archery’. The students were taught how to hold the bow and release the arrow expertly. Apparently tilting the bow on a slight angle helps to hold the arrow on top of your hand and stop it from falling off. The boys soon got to grips with this and a couple of bullseye shots soon followed.
The boys then bravely volunteered to be fired at by a man wearing what can only be described as a Robin Hood costume. They were taught how to hold the shields and protect themselves from the onslaught of arrows. Luckily, these arrows had a large, soft and spongy end. However, they still made a terrifying loud bang when they clattered with the shields. The boys didn’t fancy posing for a photo together, so this one brilliantly sums up the day.