KS2/Common Entrance - Life in a Castle: Interactive History Roleplay

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Pupils take on the role of a newcomer arriving at the gates of Orford Castle in early 1215. Through a series of historically grounded scenarios, they must make decisions that affect their survival, reputation, loyalty, and status. Each choice leads to different consequences, encouraging discussion, justification, and reflection using historical knowledge.

Historically accurate stages covering:

• Arrival and social hierarchy
• Life in the kitchens, as a page or as a labourer
• Daily routines, discipline and castle justice
• Relationships, gossip and loyalty
• Importance of faith and forgiveness
• Preparing for attack and surviving a siege

Written in second person to maximise engagement;
Strong narrative focus combined with secure historical detail;
Utilising historical digital art to show the interior of Orford Castle;
“Level Up” links to short videos on food, building a castle, and the life of a page;
Each character has an audio link to enrich the experience;

How to use:

• Whole-class discussion with decision points
• Small-group roleplay or guided reading
• Independent learning or cover lessons
• Creative writing or diary outcomes
• Assessment of historical reasoning