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Health and Hygiene

Why were people in medieval times so preoccupied with death? Why did medieval monks live so long? What did they eat? How often did they wash? What happened when they were ill? Did they actually know what they were doing? Explore these questions and more using the abbey’s buildings, artefacts, herbs and documentary evidence. We will look at death, disease, cures, hygiene and diet and compare the monks with ordinary medieval people.

Suitable for: KS2, Local Leeds History, Medieval and Tudor, Studies Through Time

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Kirkstall Abbey; hideous history or local legend?

Virtual only. This workshop engages pupils with history and encourages thinking skills by exploring some of the more horrid aspects of life in medieval and Tudor Leeds

Arty in the Abbey

This session is full of fun art activities designed to help pupils to understand and explore our wonderful ruins.

‘The Hungry Caterpillar’ story sack

Share the story of ‘The Hungry Caterpillar’ by Eric Carle. The story sack includes the book, soft puppets, laminated food and dressing up outfit.

If stones could speak!

Fun practical activities including puppets, art rubbings and dressing up help pupils to understand the different materials used in old buildings.

Why is Kirkstall Abbey important?

This workshop will look at people like Henry de Lacy and Henry VIII in a talking timeline, explore the ruins and lives of the monks that lived here.

Hideous History: Monks and Tudors

Why did Tudor doctors shave chickens’ bottoms? What did monks do with wee? Why were beetles so important in making books?

Maths at the Monastery

Experience practical maths in action! Pupils will compare and contrast modern and medieval methods and decide which is best.

What was it like to be a Monk at Kirkstall Abbey?

Take part in this workshop covering 850 years, with pupils taking on the roles of important people in Kirkstall’s history.

Power and Politics

Develop pupil’s interpretation and enquiry skills by exploring medieval life in the abbey, change over time and the power of the Church.