Westminster Abbey has expanded its free self-led learning trails to include Key Stage 4 and 5 pupils, and announced a programme of special events for schools in 2027.
The trails are free to download and cover topics such as Westminster Abbey’s Tudor history, a deeper look at Christian worship, the Abbey’s links to Parliament, as well as a broad cross-curricular overview.
Westminster Abbey is also introducing a a mix of free and charged special events in 2027 that offer older students the chance to discuss history, politics and religion with members of the Abbey and industry experts, plus interactive Easter activities for Primary pupils.
Enhancing self-led visits
Westminster Abbey has expanded its learning trails to include pupils in Key Stage 4 and 5, following the success of similar trails for KS2 and KS3. Groups studying politics should use the Abbey and Parliament trail to discover links between religion and government, how people’s rights to vote and protest have been memorialised, and the connection of political leaders to the Abbey over the years.
With the Tudors trail, history groups can learn about Westminster Abbey’s founding, its past as a monastery, and its reshaping over time from the reign of Henry VIII and the Reformation to the present day. Students will also learn about its long-standing connection to the monarchy and the coronation process.
The Christian Life and Worship trail offers groups studying religion an insight into the Abbey’s origins and evolution over time, taking students to all corners of the Abbey and includes useful prompts and questions for critical thinking. For more general visits or cross-curricular groups, the Abbey Highlights trail provides a comprehensive look at Westminster Abbey, its history and significance.
Special events
In 2027, a selection of special events open to schools will take place on site at Westminster Abbey. The first is a History Masterclass: Henry VIII on 19th January, open to A-Level history students who’ll have the chance to spend the day with historian Nathen Amin. The day will involve a lecture from Amin on the monarch’s power and use of propaganda, plus a tour of the Abbey’s Tudor architecture and tombs.
KS5 students are also invited to take part in Sixth Form Question Time on 9th February, either in person or via a livestream. The event will involve a Q&A with a panel of politicians, public servants and faith leaders.
For Years 4-6, there will be a range of activities happening at the Abbey from 2nd-4th March as part of Step into Holy Week. Costumed interpreters will lead sessions that explore the Easter story, including sitting at the table of the Last Supper and hearing about the crucifixion from Peter, one of Jesus’ disciples. Pupils will also be able to meet and stroke donkeys while learning about how they played a part in Jesus’ story.
Find all the information about school visits to Westminster Abbey at westminster-abbey.org/learning/schools.
