Enrichment is a vital part of our History curriculum. At Aston Rowant, we believe that memorable, hands-on experiences help children develop curiosity, historical understanding and cultural capital. Through immersive days, visits, visitors and local community engagement, our pupils experience history in meaningful, exciting and authentic ways.

Below are some of the enrichment opportunities that make History come alive in our school.

Immersive Theme Days

Victorian Day

Pupils step back into the 1800s, dressing in Victorian clothing, learning in traditional style classrooms and exploring artefacts from the era. These experiences give children a vivid understanding of social class, schooling, inventions and daily life.

Ancient Greek Day

Children explore democracy, myths, gods, Olympic sports and life in the city-states of Athens and Sparta. Through drama, role-play and creative projects, pupils develop a strong understanding of Ancient Greek culture and its influence on the modern world.

Ancient Egyptian Day

A whole day dedicated to pyramids, pharaohs, mummification, artefacts and beliefs. Children investigate hieroglyphics, create Egyptian artefacts and experience first-hand what life in Ancient Egypt may have been like.

Visitors

Mr Egypt

One of our most-loved enrichment experiences, Mr Egypt brings authentic artefacts, expert knowledge and powerful storytelling to the classroom. His sessions deepen pupils’ understanding of Ancient Egyptian life and give them the chance to handle real or replica artefacts - creating unforgettable learning moments.

Technology That Brings the Past to Life

VR Headset Historical Experiences – Stone Age

Virtual Reality enables pupils to step directly into the past. Children have explored Stone Age settlements, caves, tools and hunting scenes through immersive VR experiences. This develops spatial understanding, empathy and curiosity, making abstract historical periods feel tangible and real.

Historical Trips

Tring Natural History Museum

Pupils explore animal specimens, fossils and gallery collections that illuminate life in different periods and places. These visits offer cross-curricular links with science, archaeology and natural history.

Tower of London

A powerful experience that helps children understand monarchy, medieval life, castles, crime and punishment, and key British historical events. Moving through the Tower grounds builds strong contextual knowledge and historical empathy.

Local History & Community Connections

Local History Walks

We are proud of our local heritage and regularly take pupils out into the community to explore:

• Aston Rowant Nature Reserve – evidence of ancient landscapes and land use
• Aston Rowant Village – historical buildings and local landmarks
• St Peter & St Paul Church – exploring Christian heritage and local history

These experiences help children understand change over time, continuity, heritage and their role as part of a wider community.

Local People & Village Community

We welcome local residents and villagers who share stories, memories and historical knowledge. These conversations help pupils recognise the value of oral history and real-life experiences, enriching their understanding of social history and community identity.

Why Enrichment Matters

Through these experiences, pupils at Aston Rowant:

• develop curiosity and enthusiasm
• gain cultural capital
• make meaningful links between past and present
• deepen their understanding of the world and their place within it
• experience history through hands-on investigation and real stories

These opportunities support our school vision of inspiring courageous, life-long learners who thrive in all areas of our curriculum.