1C have been learning and making heraldic shields as part of their Castles topic. We learnt that during Tudor times, important families would have their own crest, or coat of arms that would have been unique to them.
A Heralder’s job was to ensure every knight had his own shield just for him with his own colour, coat of arms and animals on. Each animal (called a supporter) represented something about that person or their family, for example; a lion represented courage and was associated with royalty, a bear was a symbol of bravery and healing, and a dragon was a guardian of treasure – the bravest of all. The colours chosen symbolised different things too, for example; black was knowledge, green was joy and hope, and red was the colour of wealth or a warrior.
1C carefully chose their colours, designs and supporters for their shield to make sure their shield was unique and represented them. After they had made their shield, the final part was to design and make a handle for the back.
The children have loved making these shields and have learnt a lot about life in medieval castle times.
