Kings and Queens for the day: City hosts coronation workshops for primary school children

Ahead of King Charles III’s coronation in May, City, University of London’s School of Communication & Creativity welcomed 150 primary school children from London and surrounding areas to learn all about the history of the showpiece event.

In partnership with the Historical Association and University of Southampton, Year 5 and 6 pupils were transported back in time to relive the origins of the Coronation and formation of the modern British monarchy. Sessions explored the historical wonder of the Crown Jewels and the part they play in the coronation ceremony, as well as a look into the mystique of Westminster Abbey.

Pupils also had the opportunity to hear from Ally Sherrick, the renowned children’s historical fiction author, who presented a mini-workshop on the construction of royal mythology. This included an activity which challenged them to construct the narrative of their own fairy tale.

A wrap-up question and answer session explored the coronation procession and diversity of its traditions, the traits of a successful King or Queen and even the future of the monarchy.

Professor Anna Whitelock, Executive Dean of the School of Communication & Creativity and Professor of the History of Monarchy at City, was very impressed by the depth of knowledge and thoughtfulness of the pupils.

“It was wonderful to see so many enthusiastic young students eager to learn about a truly historic event,” she said.

Historians have spent so long studying coronations of the past, but for many of us this will be a first in our lifetimes.

“A key topic of discussion in the build-up to this latest coronation is of how necessary and relevant a lot of the traditions still are, so it was very interesting to gauge the views of a younger generation and their feelings about our monarchy.”

Melanie Jones, Education Manager at the Historical Association, said the coronation offered a rare opportunity to reflect on royal tradition.

“We were delighted to work in partnership with City, University of London and the University of Southampton to help younger pupils get to grips with the history and symbolism of what they will see at the coronation of King Charles III on 6 May,” she said.

“It is a hugely historic occasion given that it is part of tradition that is over 1,000 years old and because for the majority of us, while it may not be the last coronation we will see in our lifetimes, it will be the first!

“Thanks to our wonderful event partners who helped us deliver some fantastic sessions. Pupils went away fired up not only with a new understanding of coronations, but also of the monarchy and the kind of king they would like Charles III to be.”

ENDS