A Great Day for a Coronation!
In History, Class 1 were tasked with learning about a significant event from history.
Our Objective:
- Describe a significant historical event in British history.
By the end of our learning on this topic we will know:
- The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II took place in 1953 at Westminster Abbey, London.
We went for an immersive experience to kick off this learning, and decided to re-enact some of the key events of the coronation (with the limited costumes we had hiding in the cupboard)! Take a look below:
The Sovereign walks from the west end of the Abbey, past the nave and choir, to the Theatre. During this procession, verses from Psalm 122 are usually sung. This is thought to have started with the coronation of Charles I.
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The Archbishop of Canterbury then presents the Sovereign to the people, who will respond with “God save the King/Queen!”. The Sovereign then will swear an oath or promise.
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Next is the Communion service. The choir will sing Veni, Creator Spiritus, an ancient hymn. The Sovereign’s robe is removed, and they are seated in the Coronation Chair, which faces the altar.
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With four knights holding a canopy over the chair, the Archbishop anoints the Sovereign with holy oil which is made up of oils from oranges, roses, cinnamon and musk.
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The Sovereign is then dressed in robes made of cloth and gold and given the coronation Regalia. The Orb, made in 1661 made of gold and surrounded by a band of diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, pearls and one large amethyst, is presented and then returned to the altar. The Sceptre in held in one hand and represents kingly power, and the Rod of the Dove is held in the other, representing justice and mercy.
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Finally, St Edward’s Crown is given to the Archbishop by the Dean of Westminster and placed upon the King/Queen’s head. This is followed by trumpet fanfares.
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There is a Holy Communion for the Sovereign, the Archbishop gives their Blessing and Gloria in Excelsis is sung.
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A coronation procession is part of the ceremony and is where important figures such as members of court, the clergy, government, and Parliament join the Sovereign in a set order and make their way through the streets or venue. Queen Elizabeth travelled in her gold carriage pulled by horses.
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We had a great afternoon! Next week we will write down what we've learnt in our journals. Here are our stars of the show:
Year 1 - Queen Elizabeth II Coronation
