History Off The Page

History Off The Page, 04 May.  What a fantastic epilogue to the Royal Wedding!

The day successfully combined historic details of Coronation Day in 1952 with up to date facts about the recent Royal Wedding.

It was a real pleasure to welcome twelve Year 2 boys from Elstree and a St Gabriel's parent-helper Mrs Grundy to join us.

Everyone entered into the 'spirit of things' by dressing as princesses, queens, soldiers, princes, bridesmaids and pageboys.

The children handled historic artefacts and memorabilia, including old newspapers and books, metal miniatures of the royal carriages and horses and different types of photographic equipment.  Anyone remember the box camera?

Small workshops enabled the group to try a hand at crown or flag making, pen and ink handwritten invitations, decorating commemorative cups and sewing embroidery mementos.

In the afternoon a royal ceremony was role-played with a calm and well-versed 'Archbishop' (Benedict Harvey) taking vows from 'Kate Middleton' (Kathryn Geddes) and 'Prince William' (Ryne Robson).  Although our visiting Prince was too bashful to kiss the bride, our own Katie took events all in her stride!

Thanks to Alison and the catering staff, delicious refreshments were provided for the royalty and the street party.  Homemade lemon barley water, a selection of sandwiches and, of course, queen's cakes were relished by the assembled crowd.  Hoola hoop dancers, rugby Hakka and poetry reading kept us all entertained.

All-in-all it was the sort of successful day that I am sure the children will remember for some time.