This week, on Tuesday, Year 7 went on a fantastic school trip to Bignor Roman Villa. Inside the villa, each room was decorated with colourful mosaics that told stories and myths that the Romans would discuss whilst eating their food. They even used glass, which was very expensive at the time.
It was very interesting to see one of the very first central heating systems, which the Romans invented. A hypocaust is the heating system they used, where heat from a nearby furnace was spread evenly around the room through tunnels beneath the floor. The heat was then pushed through chimneys in the walls, warming up the whole room. Evidence of this heating system can still be seen at Bignor Roman Villa through the exposed floor.
We also took part in a variety of Roman activities, including wax tablet writing, where we wrote Roman numerals and letters. This was one of many people’s favourite activities. We also handled ancient artefacts and drew them.
Another popular activity was grain grinding, where we ground wheat to make flour using heavy stone tools, just as the Romans did. It was so cool. We also played some Roman board games and even beat Mrs Johnson!
It was an exciting day full of Roman culture.
Once we got back, we had lunch, got changed for Games and then went on a 5km walk through the Downs.
It was a fantastic day and we learned so much about Roman life.
Written by Percy, Year 7
