The Coronation

Designed for Key Stage 1 children, our Coronation 1953 Day immerses your pupils in the pomp, ceremony and spectacle of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II on 2nd June 1953.

 

Morning session:

The morning begins ‘hands on’ as the children examine evidence and handle a selection of original artefacts from 1953. The items range from coronation street party cups and menus used at the Queens’ banquet following the ceremony, to cameras, radios and a television used by spectators on the day.

After break the children make various items, to include souvenir mugs. They also write on replica postcards and ‘street party’ certificates using dip pens and ink, as used by children of the time.

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Afternoon session:

Finally, in the afternoon the pupils take part in a ‘street party’. The party begins with a crowning ceremony, followed by entertainments for ‘Her Majesty’. These include ballroom dancing, marching soldiers and performances of The Haka and Hula dancing by ‘our friends from The Commonwealth’. The children toast ‘The Queen’ with a little food and drink during the entertainments.

LEARN ABOUT THE CORONATION OF QUEEN ELIZABETH II WITH A 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 street party. (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.

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What to Wear

Costumes need not be complicated — we suggest the following “homemade” alternatives that resemble school uniforms of the period:

  • Boys: A collared shirt (with tie if possible), grey jumper, dark shorts (sports shorts would be fine), socks, black or brown shoes (if possible, preferably not trainers).
  • Girls: A collared shirt (with tie if possible), grey jumper, dark skirt or pinafore dress, socks, black or brown shoes (if possible, preferably not trainers.)