“We were exceptionally lucky to be guided by an outstanding trip leader from the Cornwall Heritage Trust, whose enthusiasm, expertise, and brilliant storytelling brought the site to life. Her passion for Cornish heritage shone through every moment, and we are so grateful for the knowledge, care, and energy she shared with the children.”
We’re so pleased to hear how much the children from Delabole Primary School learnt on their recent ‘Discovery Workshop’ at Castle an Dinas (East), one of Cornwall’s largest and most impressive hillforts.
Led by our Education and Outreach Manager, Caroline, the day was jam-packed with hands-on learning, including exploring the hillfort, handling artefacts, and reimagining the past in this archaeological landscape.
Here’s what their teachers said…
“I was really impressed with Caroline’s knowledge and ability to involve all the children… All her resources, pictures, artefacts and knowledge really supported the children’s learning and the ability for staff to lead further sessions.”
“The children were captivated by the sweeping views, the dramatic landscape, and the chance to stand in a place steeped in thousands of years of history.”
“It truly was an amazing trip — one filled with learning, laughter, and awe. Pengelly Class returned to school inspired, informed, and buzzing with excitement about everything they had discovered.”
Dating from around the fourth to first centuries BCE, Castle an Dinas is sited in an imposing position on the summit of Castle Downs with extensive and panoramic views across central Cornwall to both north and south coasts.
Flint artefacts from the later Mesolithic period (before 4000 BCE) and surviving Bronze Age barrows indicate that people had gathered on this dominating hill from early prehistoric times. The third rampart from the centre may be earlier than the main Iron Age ones and be the remains of a later Bronze Age or early Iron Age precursor to the hillfort.
The workshop was provided free of charge as part of our Discovery Workshops Programme. This programme is part-funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund.
Transport for the trip was funded by our School Transport Grants Scheme. Cornish Lithium is the foundation sponsor for this academic year’s grants.
The school said…
“The cost of the coach was over £400… The transport grant was a huge help to us and made it affordable for every parent.”
We offer a wide range of free and subsidised workshops at our historic sites as part of our Discovery Programme, and feedback like this shows what inspiring learning experiences they are.
Our on-site workshops are provided to schools, alternative education provision and community groups free of charge. For those struggling with the cost of petrol and vehicle hire, you can also apply for one of our transport grants to support your visit.
