Originally built by Edward the Confessor, Henry III rebuilt parts of the church around 800 years ago. The children walked through the original 1000 year old cloisters and were surprised at how different the 'newer' part of the building looked. A highlight for the children whilst in the cloisters was stumbling across Britain's oldest door. Built in the 1050s, the children were astonished by what good condition it was still in. 

Of course, Westminster Abbey is known as a royal church. It is the place where every coronation in the last 1000 years has taken place. Fergus and Olivia re-enacted a sped up version of the coronation. Fergus, playing the Archbishop of Canterbury, was led through the process of anointing Olivia, the queen, with holy oil and gave her an orb and sceptre to hold. Olivia was given a replica of King Edward's crown to wear. We were all interested to learn that this crown is only worn for the official crowning section of the coronation because it weighs the same as a 2 litre bottle of a fizzy drink!

The School Council came away with plenty of newly discovered historical knowledge and a clearer view of how our British Values (democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, tolerance and respect) link to the history of the Abbey. It certainly was a fascinating trip.