History

Design. Build. Burn: 1666 Re-Ignited as Year 1 Children Relive the Great Fire of London!

8th December 2025 by Clare Sara

DT Meets 1666: When Our Creations Faced the Flames!

The excitement was sky-high as the Year 1 children gathered to watch their carefully crafted Tudor houses go up in flames, recreating the dramatic moment the Great Fire of London began. As the sparks flickered and the smoke curled upwards, the children were completely immersed—gasps, wide eyes, and fascinated chatter filled the playground.

Seeing their designs burn just like the wooden homes of 1666 helped bring history to life in a vivid, memorable way, turning their DT project into a real-life learning experience they won’t soon forget.

Pepys from the Past: Time-Traveling Diarist Lands in Year 1!

8th December 202521st November 2025 by Clare Sara

Year 1 had a very special visitor—none other than the famous 17th-century diarist, Samuel Pepys!

The day began with the children taking on the role of town criers, ringing bells and calling out news to the “citizens” of Year 1, experiencing the thrill of delivering announcements the old-fashioned way.

The children were enamoured by Samuel Pepys and listened carefully to everything he revealed, with some impressing him with their own knowledge of what they already knew!

Next, both classes worked in their own classrooms on activities set by Samuel Pepys himself. This included making their own diaries of key events from Pepys’ past, collecting different stickers at stations, and using VIPERS skills to extract information from different sources.

They even tried writing with quills, carefully practicing their letters and imagining they were journaling their own London adventures alongside Pepys. The children also built their own timelines of the Great Fire of London, acting out key moments and even playing a game to see if the fire would spread before they “won,” giving everyone a hands-on understanding of how quickly events could unfold in historic London.

The excitement continued as Pepys quizzed the children: “What unusual pet did I have that could belong in a zoo?” Every child had a chance to guess, and amazingly one child even gave the correct answer! The victorious guesser was rewarded by digging for some cheese, just like Samuel had buried all those years ago. Do you know what the animal was?

They also used magnifying glasses to study a picture of London from a long, long time ago, spotting details they might have missed with the naked eye.

From start to finish, it felt as if history had stepped off the pages and into the classroom. While Samuel Pepys returned to the 17th century, Year 1 will remember this unforgettable journey back in time for weeks to come.

Penpol Remembers

13th November 202513th November 2025 by Michael Pearson

This week, our school and wider community came together to mark Remembrance Day, honouring those who served in wars past and present. In the days leading up to November 11th, our Year 6 pupils took part in a range of special activities across different subjects to help us understand and reflect on the importance of remembrance.

In English, children learned the famous World War I poem In Flanders Fields by John McCrae. They discussed the poem’s meaning, imagery and the emotions it evokes. Pupils were inspired to write their own thoughtful poems about the brave souls who sacrificed their lives in WWI.

Meanwhile, in Art, pupils created striking pictures of poppy fields, soldiers, and scenes from wartime, showing great care and creativity.

In Design and Technology, children designed and sewed their own red poppies, carefully stitching the petals and leaves to create beautiful symbols of remembrance.

On Remembrance Day itself, the whole year group walked together to the Hayle War Memorial. We joined members of the local community to take part in a two-minute silence at 11 o’clock. It was a moving and respectful moment as we stood quietly, remembering those who gave their lives for our freedom.

Our Remembrance Day activities helped everyone to think deeply about history, sacrifice, and gratitude — and to understand why it is so important to remember.

Year 2 Light Up History with Guy Fawkes in Forest School

11th December 20253rd November 2025 by Lisa Bettens

This week, Year 2 had an unforgettable experience in Forest School when a very special visitor arrived—none other than Guy Fawkes himself! The children were captivated as he retold the story of the Gunpowder Plot, explaining why he and his co-conspirators tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament.

The session was full of excitement and curiosity. Pupils listened carefully, asking thoughtful questions about the events of 1605, and enjoyed hearing history brought to life in the forest. They learned not just the facts, but also about courage, consequences, and the importance of working together—just as the conspirators did, for better or worse!

To make the story even more memorable, Guy Fawkes lit the fire in the Forest School firepit, giving the children a dramatic demonstration of the Bonfire Night tradition. He also showed them a seal used on letters in his time, prompting pupils to compare artefacts from the past with things they use today.

The fun didn’t stop in the forest! Back in the classroom, Year 2 continued learning with a range of creative activities. They made timelines of the Gunpowder Plot to understand the sequence of events, played a thrilling game where they had to finish a Guy Fawkes picture before the barrel exploded, and even created sparkling firework artworks to celebrate Bonfire Night.

Teachers praised the pupils for their enthusiasm, imagination, and teamwork throughout the day. It was a fun, fiery, and memorable experience that truly brought history to life!

An Exciting Visit from Our Local Heroes: Ben and Ben, the Firefighter Men!

9th November 202522nd October 2025 by Clare Sara

After a real-life emergency our two local Firefighter heroes re-arranged their visit to come to visit Year 1 on the last day before half-term.

On Wednesday, the Year 1 children at Penpol School had a very special visit from two real-life firefighters! The children were thrilled to meet these local heroes and learn all about what firefighters do to help keep everyone safe.

The children were amazed to discover how heavy the equipment is and how quickly firefighters have to put it on during an emergency. Everyone listened carefully as the Bens explained what to do if there’s ever a fire — Get out, stay out, and call 999!

Loud cheers filled the air as the children eagerly listened to the blaring siren. A sea of smiles spread across the playground as everyone gathered to explore the big red fire engine. Each child had the opportunity to climb aboard and experience what it’s like inside the cabin.

Interesting questions for the Firefighters!

The firefighters then provided an informative demonstration, explaining some of the various tools and equipment used in their daily work. The children learnt about the importance of fire safety and the vital role firefighters play in keeping the community safe. They asked thoughtful questions, such as, “Where does the water come from?” Many questions were enthusiastically centred around ladders! Year 1 listened carefully to the answers, showing great curiosity and excitement throughout the visit.

They learnt so much about fire safety and had a fantastic time meeting their local heroes. A huge thank you to Firefighters Ben and Ben for visiting Penpol School and teaching us how we can stay safe.

More questions from Class 3 children as well!

Year 2 Storm Pendennis for a day of History and fun!!

28th October 202521st October 2025 by Lisa Bettens

On Tuesday, 21st October, Year 2 enjoyed an exciting and educational trip to Pendennis Castle in Falmouth. The children travelled by coach and were full of anticipation as they prepared to explore one of Cornwall’s most historic landmarks.

On arrival, pupils were impressed by the castle’s towering stone walls and impressive sea views. They learned that Pendennis Castle was built by King Henry VIII to defend the Cornish coast from invasion. Throughout the visit, the children spotted the features of the castle they had learnt about in the classroom, bringing their learning to life. The children were able to climb to the top of the keep, where they were rewarded with panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.

The children also took part in a hands-on activity, exploring artefacts from Tudor times, learning about their uses and helping them to understand life in the past.

Quotes from the children:

‘This is the best day ever, I got to see canons’

‘I can see the arrow slits’

‘The portcullis was to stop invaders’

Magic on the Mount

28th October 202521st October 2025 by Lisa Bettens

On Wednesday, 24th September 2025 and Thursday, 25th September 2025, Classes 5 and 6 embarked upon magical and memorable trips to St Michael’s Mount as part of their Autumn Term topic, ‘Who’s the King of the Castle?’

Pupils enjoyed a 5-minute boat ride across the water to the island as they didn’t fancy the long swim.

We were greeted at the harbour by Kerry Rice, the Education Officer for St Aubyn Estate, who led us on a magical journey through time as we explored the historic beauty of St Michael’s Mount.

On the short but steep hike up the Mount, we discovered the ‘Giant’s Well’, where Kerry captivated the children’s imaginations with the legend of Cormoran the Giant. We learned about the story of a tyrannical giant who once lived on the Mount and how he was defeated by a local boy called Jack.

Further up the Pilgrim’s Steps, children discovered the Giant’s Heart within the cobbled path. Legend has it that if you place your toe on this magical stone, then you can feel Cormoran’s heartbeat in your chest!

Finally, we reached the castle at the top of the Mount, where the stone fortifications, battlements and canons immediately brought this period of medieval history to life. Kerry taught us the chronology of the mount’s use through time, going back over 3000 years from early Bronze Age artefacts to its use as a monastery, to the castle’s construction following the Norman Conquest of Britain.

As we explored the inside of the castle, children discovered an abundance of fascinating artefacts scattered throughout the castle’s intricate maze of rooms and buildings, including a mysteriously large leather jug and the entrance to a hidden chamber, where a 7-foot skeleton was once discovered!

After descending the steep and uneven path back down the mount, we had certainly earned a good lunch. One final treat was in store, as Kerry led a wonderful drama activity in which they acted out the story of Cormoran the Giant – complete with an authentic blast of a horn from Kerry!

By the afternoon, the tide had gone out, revealing the beautiful cobblestone causeway that connects the island to the mainland. We walked back along the beach and enjoyed the minibus journey back to school, minds full of the history and magic of St Michael’s Mount.

War Declared For Year 6!

13th November 202520th September 2025 by Nic Stanlake

86 years to almost the day since thousands of children and vulnerable young people were evacuated from cities across the country during World War II, our Year 6 children had a go themselves. As an immersive launch to our Autumn Term topic ‘Wartime and Peace’, the children (and adults!) dressed in period clothing and experienced life as evacuees for the day.

After being met at the gates by two of the newest members of the Penpol Division of the British Forces and our very own Land Girls, they waved a teary goodbye to their parents before heading off to the train station. They were then subjected to a roll call and squeezed into cramped school classrooms — much like the evacuees of 1939 would have been when they departed the trains, albeit with far less jeopardy!

Once settled, the children had the chance to act in character and meet their fellow evacuees, discussing the contents of their suitcases and their preferred destinations. They also explored and played traditional 1940s games before taking some time to research and better understand the process of Operation Pied Piper. Later, they wrote some touching postcards home eve, created some Blitz inspired art and even transported their evacuee selves digitally into a 1939 scene using some clever iPad tricks!

After a ration-free lunch, the children got to grips with the challenges of wartime rationing by trying some home cooking, following a handed-down ration recipe to make delicious scones. Many were surprised to see — and later taste — the limited sugar available during the war!

The evacuation of Year 6 lasted far less time than those of World War II and ended with much greater success. Unlike the wartime generation, all children returned to their homes — none left behind — but not before parents were invited into class to share the day’s work and sample some of the sugar-free scones on offer!

Year 2’s High Seas Adventure Aboard the Galeón Andalucía!

1st July 20251st July 2025 by Michael Pearson

On a bright and breezy morning, Year 2 set off on an unforgettable trip to visit the Galeón Andalucía — a magnificent replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon. The adventure began with an exciting train journey from Hayle to Penzance, filled with chatter and anticipation.

After arriving at Penzance station, the children walked together to the harbour, where the towering masts of the Galeón Andalucía came into view. Everyone was amazed by the size and beauty of the ship, with its tall sails and wooden decks that looked just like something out of a pirate story.

The Galeón Andalucía is no ordinary ship. It’s a faithful replica of the famous Spanish galleons that, between the 16th and 18th centuries, set sail from the Andalusian coast to explore and connect the world. These ships navigated the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, American coasts, and the vast Pacific, serving as vital links between continents for more than 300 years.

Built in Punta Umbría, Spain, with meticulous historical accuracy, the Galeón Andalucía stretches an impressive 55 metres in length and features six decks made from iroko and pine wood. With seven sails covering nearly 1,000 square metres, it is both a marvel of craftsmanship and a floating museum of maritime heritage. Over the years, it has visited ports across four continents — from London and New York to Shanghai and Manila — proudly showcasing Spanish seafaring culture.

During their visit, the children enjoyed a guided tour of the ship, exploring everything from the captain’s quarters to the gun deck and even into the ship’s hold. The tours were led by the galleon’s very own crew: a team of Spanish sailors who live and breathe life on the galleon.

After the tour, our Year 2 pupils delighted locals and tourists at the harbour by performing a cheerful selection of sea shanties. Their enthusiastic singing brought smiles to many faces and added a joyful note to the busy quayside.

It was a day full of learning, laughter, and music — one that will surely be remembered by all. A huge thank you to the staff, crew, and helpers who made the trip possible. Year 2’s voyage into maritime history was truly a treasure!

All Aboard! Year 2 Explore Mounts Bay

7th June 20257th June 2025 by Michael Pearson

As part of our 360° curriculum offer, Year 2 pupils took to the water this week for some exciting educational adventures around Mounts Bay with Marine Discovery Tours. Classes 5 and 6 boarded boats at Penzance Harbour and set off on journeys packed with wildlife, history, and hands-on geography learning.

These boat trips gave our pupils a chance to explore the Cornish coastline from a whole new perspective. The young explorers climbed aboard the Shearwater II, before travelling southwest from Penzance towards the fishing village of Mousehole, stopping to admire St Clement’s Isle and the mysterious Mousehole Cave.

As we sailed, pupils used compass directions to describe their route, as well as identifying human and physical geographical features along the coast.

The trip wasn’t just scenic—it was full of wildlife wonders! Pupils were thrilled to spot grey seals sunbathing on the rocks, graceful gannets diving for fish, and even shearwaters gliding over the waves. Resident seal expert, Josh, shared his expertise on grey seals, allowing pupils to see and touch real seal fur and even a seal’s skull!

To the delight of one lucky group, a pod of playful dolphins swam alongside the boat!

“It was amazing to see the dolphins,” said one Year 2 pupil. “They were so fast and playful—it was like they were racing us!”

In between sightings, the pupils kept spirits high by singing traditional sea shanties and learning all about the rich history of Mounts Bay. Stories of smugglers, pirates, and hidden caves captured everyone’s imagination and helped bring our local coastline to life.

Once out past the protective cliffs to the west of Mounts Bay, the sailed were hoisted as we set a course back towards Penzance, with the boat being steered by our seafaring Year 2 pupils.

These trips were a perfect opportunity to bring classroom learning to life through real-world experiences. A big thank you to Marine Discovery and to all the staff and helpers who made these experiences such a success.

It’s safe to say that these boat trips will be one of the standout memories of Year 2!