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Durham Day
1st April 2025

On Friday 21st March, UC5 historians were transported back to the 11th Century, to learn all about Durham Cathedral.

As this year’s site study for the Historic Environment component of the AQA GCSE, the cathedral serves as an excellent microcosm of the culture, values and changes associated with Norman England. Students were challenged to build on their existing knowledge and explore key aspects of the site, including the reasons for the construction of the cathedral, its design and architecture and the experiences of individuals who lived, worked and worshipped there.

The day ended with a Normans ‘Escape Room’, which saw great excitement and put the students’ skills to the test.  

The History Department were really impressed with the interest, engagement and enthusiasm demonstrated by all students on the day. From rib-vaulted ceilings to compound columns, via Prince-Bishops and peninsular positions; we hope they all enjoyed learning about the combination of faith and force in Norman England, as demonstrated by Durham Cathedral. 

Miss Bowden, Teacher of History

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