Our interactive, hands-on sessions inspire children to actively explore the architecture and history of the Old Royal Naval College. Most programmes are free of charge.
Primary Schools Programme 2008-9 (1.4 MB)
Storytelling
Foundation Stage
45 minutes
This multi-sensory storytelling session uses our unique tactile rug to engage young children with visual imagery in the Painted Hall. Find out about kings, queens, monsters and sailors through stories, song, role play and object handling.
This tactile resource is accessible for children with visual impairment.
Art, literacy
Key Stage 1 and 2
2 hours for KS1, 4 hours for KS2
Using the many hybrid and imaginary creatures that appear in the Painted Hall, this session encourages children to think about how animals have been used as symbols in art. Children then create their own impossible creatures using a range of materials.

History, art and design, drama, literacy
Key Stage 1 and 2
2 hours
Come and explore the myths of the Painted Hall in this lively storytelling session. Children will investigate classical gods, goddesses, monsters and heroes through role play and mask making. A drama extension activity is also available.
Maths, art and design
Key Stage 1 and 2
1 hour 30 minutes - 2 hours
An interactive session that explores the maths behind the architecture and decorative work at the ORNC. Children will investigate shape and symmetry in the Painted Hall and Chapel and then create their own patterns. An imaginative way to study maths outside the classroom.
History, citizenship, drama
Key Stage 2
2 hours
Meet John Deman and hear about his journey from the Caribbean to Britain with Nelson's fleet and his life as a Greenwich Hospital Pensioner. In this exciting living history experience children will find out about life at sea and the uniform, daily life, crimes and punishments at the Hospital during the early Victorian period. This interactive session includes role play, trying on replica costumes and a visit to our real Victorian Skittle Alley.
History,drama
Key Stage 2
1 hour 45 minutes
To celebrate the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII becoming King, we will be offering these unique Tudor sessions led by costumed performers. Children will be given the opportunity to play the main roles in an interactive performance of Henry’s life which explores his six marriages and the religious and social transformation of England. Children will also learn about life for the rich and poor in Tudor times through dance and games workshops.
Visits to the Chapel – Resources available to explore Christian places of worship
Meet the Buildings – Become an architecture detective
Storytelling tours – Discover the stories behind the walls
Art workshops in the Painted Hall
To discuss your requirements please contact Melissa Lurie on
020 8269 4715 or education@greenwichfoundation.org.uk.
We work in partnership with Thames Explorer Trust to deliver workshops using the River Thames as a resource for history,geography and science at Key Stage 1 and 2. Please contact Thames Explorer Trust on 020 8742 0057 for more details.
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