New Recruits - Romans at Murton Park

A very exciting, albeit very cold, day was had by Team AC and Team CB as they ventured back in time to the Roman era on their visit to Murton Park near York this week. On arrival at the camp they were greeted by the duty centurion and were split into groups and marched to their barracks in the Roman Fort where they were introduced to what life would have been like for the soldiers who lived over 2000 years ago. First they were kitted out with Roman uniforms and took part in different activities during the day. They immersed themselves in writing the date in Roman numerals and practised writing their alphabet in Latin . They were taught how to make oil lamps from clay using the pinching method where they learnt that these would have been the only form of lighting at this time. 
One of their favourite activities was learning the essential military skills of marching whilst saying 'sin dex' (left right) and using a sword and shield. They understood how the Roman armies would work together in formation to create barriers against the enemies such as the Celts from Britain. Wooden swords were used to attack the 'cloth bag' enemies and wooden spears were thrown, with increasing accuracy, at target posts.
Despite the cold, wet and muddy conditions the children had a wonderful time bringing history to life! 'Brilliant', 'great', 'fun', 'the best' were just some of the words use to describe this very interesting and educational day. It will give the children so much more understanding of what life was like in the Roman armies at that time. 

excited

getting our orders

lunch at last