Life in Ancient Egypt

Two boys use wooden sticks to carve figures into white bars of soap.
Soap carving during an in-school Life in Ancient Egypt Day.

Welcome to the 14th century BC, the 8th year of Akhenaten’s reign. Construction of a new utopian city to honour the god Aten nears completion. To celebrate, the Pharaoh plans to name a new high priest, the Mery-Ra, to oversee religious worship. (Pharaoh banned worship of all other Egyptian gods.) No one knows who the Mery-Ra might be.

The children serve as workers and slaves finishing the construction of the city. They complete important tasks in ancient Egyptian culture, including embalming, tomb painting and amulet making, among others.

The afternoon features an Egyptian “banquet” — what will the pronouncement of the Pharaoh be?

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LEARNING ABOUT KING TUTANKHAMUN? CHECK OUT OUR VIRTUAL WORKSHOP

 

How You Contribute to the Day

To make the most of your children’s day, please help us with the following:

  • Adult helpers: The number of children participating determines how many work stations our Teacher brings. Please recruit a corresponding number of adults (teachers, TAs, parents) to oversee the activities and the afternoon session. (Your booking form lists the exact number needed.)
  • The school hall: Please reserve the school hall for the full day (it is not a problem if it is used for lunch).
  • Food: Please provide a small amount of food for the afternoon banquet. (It is a very small amount that helps set the scene — you can find details in the booklet when it arrives.)
  • Costumes: Please encourage the children to dress up in simple costumes. It helps them feel the part.

Please note that we still require adult helpers for in-school days. If this conflicts with your schools coronavirus policies, please let us know — a virtual workshop might be a better option for your school.

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What to Wear

Costumes need not be complicated — we suggest the following “homemade” alternatives:

  • Boys: A white T-shirt and white shorts with a belt, cord or sash around the waist; sandals.
  • Girls: A simple white shift made from a sheet; sandals.

 

INFORMATION ABOUT OUR VIRTUAL WORKSHOP HAS MOVED — SEE OUR VIRTUAL WORKSHOP HERE

 

Photos of the In-School Day: