The shout went up, 'make way for Hereward!' as Hereward returned to Ely on Thursday—this time not as a warrior of legend but as a living, breathing connection to history for the students of King’s Ely. The school, founded in 970 AD, is itself a cornerstone of Ely’s cultural and historical identity, standing as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Anglo-Saxon and Norman eras. Situated within the very landscape where the Fenland Rebellion unfolded, King’s Ely remains a fitting venue for immersing young minds in the story of one of England’s most enigmatic figures.

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The Year 7 history students, under the guidance of their teacher Amy Beck, were transported back in time as Hereward himself, brought to life by re-enactor Rory G, captivated them with tales of his exploits and rebellion against Norman forces. Rory’s portrayal of 'The Heroes Journey'  highlighted not only the drama of Hereward’s legend but also the geographical and cultural significance of the events surrounding the fall of Ely. Students discovered how this pivotal moment in history was rooted in their very surroundings, gaining a deeper appreciation for the interplay between their local heritage and national history, in the course of their KS3 studies on Anglo-Saxon and Anglo-Norman England at the time of Conquest.

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Following an engaging assembly that set the stage for Hereward’s larger-than-life persona, the re-enactor delved into the practicalities of life in the 11th century, offering a hands-on exploration of the crafts, tools, and weapons of the Anglo-Saxon world. Students eagerly observed demonstrations of the weaponry Hereward and his followers would have wielded, drawing connections between the hero’s battlefield strategy and the broader themes of resilience and ingenuity during the Norman Conquest.

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The day took a fascinating turn with a detailed lesson on the brewing traditions of Anglo-Saxon England. Students were intrigued to learn how Hereward, a man of many talents, crafted his own beer—a vital skill in an era where brewing was both an art and a necessity. This immersive experience not only enriched their understanding of daily life in the Middle Ages but also emphasized the interconnectedness of history, geography, and culture.

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The outcomes of this visit extended beyond the classroom walls. By engaging directly with the Hereward legend, students gained an invaluable perspective on the importance of preserving and celebrating historical narratives. Hereward, once a distant figure of folklore, became a tangible symbol of defiance, leadership, and the power of local identity within a larger national story. Experiences like this underscore the role of history in inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and a sense of pride in one’s heritage—key pillars for fostering a deeper understanding of our shared past.

King’s Ely, with its centuries-old traditions and profound ties to the Hereward story, proved to be the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable journey into the past. In the end, it wasn’t just about learning history—it was about feeling it come alive.

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Thankyou to History Teacher Amy Beck, the History Department and King's School for a pleasurable experience with the young scholars, as well as the students themselves. (Images herein are courtesy of Amy Beck with permission to post on the Hereward website).