Year 5 spent their Trips Week exploring the ancient city of York and the surrounding area, deepening their knowledge and understanding of the history they are studying in the classroom. Whilst in York, the boys enjoyed stepping back to the time of the Norman Conquest with a visit to Clifford’s Tower; a Motte and Bailey castle commissioned shortly after the invasion. Despite having no enemies to fend off, the boys enjoyed spectacular views of the city and beyond. They also visited The Shambles, for a spot of shopping, and the Minster; a truly remarkable building.

No trip to Yorkshire would be complete without a trip to the coast, and some time on the beach. The seaside town of Whitby allowed the boys to visit the ruins of the abbey, count the famous steps down to the town, tread the cobbles and see how the town is linked to Dracula and Captain James Cook. Once all this was done sandcastles were built, waves were jumped and ice creams were enjoyed!

The excursions did not stop there. The boys visited the monastery at Ampleforth, comparing what they have studied in the classroom about medieval monks, with how they live today. They were surprised to find out that little had changed, but amazed by the tour of the church, and the little wooden mice.

The last place visited was Castle Howard, a stunning stately home surrounded by beautiful gardens. The boys enjoyed seeing the decorated rooms, portraits and trinkets inside the house, and the Atlas fountain outside. However, Castle Howard isn’t just a place to admire carefully, as it has the most amazing playground – a great place to let off steam.

A fun, informative and busy few days for the Year 5 boys, who were great ambassadors for Durston.

Mrs Green, Head of Complementary Curriculum