Bringing History to Life: Year 5 Build Their Own Motte and Bailey Castles
History leapt off the page and into the hands of our Year 5 pupils this term as they embarked on a truly immersive, creative adventure—designing and building their very own motte and bailey castles! This hands-on project was far more than just an arts and crafts exercise; it was a dynamic exploration of medieval architecture, engineering ingenuity, and historical storytelling.
The journey began in March, when pupils delved into the fascinating world of Norman Britain. Through a series of lively and interactive lessons, they discovered how motte and bailey castles were instrumental in securing control during the Norman conquest of England. Enthusiasm grew with every lesson, as students began to appreciate the strategic brilliance and resourcefulness behind these early fortifications.
With a solid foundation of historical knowledge under their belts, the young designers eagerly moved from theory to practice. Sketches were drafted, materials gathered, and plans laid with all the enthusiasm of true architects. Using twigs, bark, moss, stones, and soil sourced from the nearby woods, the pupils carefully constructed miniature castles that reflected not only historical accuracy but also their imaginative flair.
Each model featured the distinctive raised motte and protective bailey—some even included lookout towers, drawbridges, and tiny dwellings within the walls. The level of detail and thought poured into each creation was remarkable, as was the teamwork, problem-solving, and artistic flair on display throughout the process.
This brilliant project brought together elements of history, design, science, and collaboration in a way that truly engaged the children. They didn’t just learn about medieval castles—they built them, explored them, and connected with the past in a meaningful, memorable way.
Our Year 5 historians have shown that when imagination meets education, magical things happen. Their motte and bailey castles stand as proud monuments to creativity, curiosity, and a deep love of learning.
