Step into the past and bring the Romans to life in the unique setting of a real Roman villa.

At Brading Roman Villa, pupils don’t just learn about history – they experience it. Surrounded by authentic archaeology, including some of the finest Roman mosaics in Britain, students explore what life was like in Roman Britain through hands-on, enquiry-based learning.

Our workshops are designed to support the National Curriculum and are tailored to each Key Stage, combining historical investigation, object handling and creative activities. Whether you are introducing the Romans for the first time or deepening existing knowledge, our sessions help pupils develop curiosity, critical thinking and a lasting connection to the past.

We offer a range of facilitated workshops and self-led visits, with clear pricing, flexible options and full support to help you plan your visit with confidence.

Why Choose Brading Roman Villa?

•  A real Roman site – learn in the place where people lived nearly 2,000 years ago
•  Outstanding mosaics – nationally significant and in situ
•  Hands-on learning – object handling, investigation and creative activities
•  Curriculum-focused – supports Key Stage learning outcomes
•  Experienced team – welcoming, knowledgeable and supportive
•  Easy to organise – clear pricing, flexible options and practical support

Learning about the Romans

Our Workshops

We offer a range of engaging, curriculum-linked sessions for schools and groups.

Quick Overview:

•  Duration: Half day ( 1 approx. 1.5–2 hours) or Full day (up to 4 hours)
•  Cost: From £7 per pupil
•  Group size: Up to 60 pupils (activities in smaller groups)
•  Key Stages: EYFS – KS3
•  Format: Standard Visit, standalone workshops or add-ons

Workshop Options

A playful, sensory introduction to the Villa as a working farm in Iron Age and Roman times.

  • Half day | Max 30 pupils | £7 pp
  • Museum + outdoor exploration
  • Small world play and craft activities

Curriculum links: EYFS (Communication & Language), KS1 (local history), Science (animals)

Our most popular option – structured, flexible and easy to plan.

  • Half day | Up to 60 pupils | £7 pp

Includes:

  • Guided museum tour (~40 mins)
  • One workshop (~40 mins)
  • Optional teacher-led activities

Add extra workshops for £1.50 per pupil.

Choose one as part of your Standard Visit:

Artefact Handling – How Did the Romans Live? (Y3-4)
Hands-on investigation of Roman objects to explore daily life.

Indoor Archaeology – Dig the Romans (Y3-4)
Excavate artefacts and learn how archaeologists interpret the past.

Drawing on Myths (KS1-2)
Create mythological creatures inspired by the Villa’s mosaics.

The Impact of the Romans on the Isle of Wight (Y5-6)
Explore how Roman life changed the Island and its people.

Who Discovered Brading Roman Villa? (Y5-6)

  • Half day | Max 30 pupils | £7 pp
  • Standalone session (advance booking required)

Meet the people involved in the Villa’s Victorian discovery, question their stories and debate the evidence.

Ideal for developing historical enquiry and interpretation skills.

Add a practical, take-home element to your visit:

Mosaic Coaster Making – £3.50 pp
Design and create a Roman-style mosaic.

Make a Roman Oil Lamp – £3.50 pp
Use clay to craft a traditional oil lamp.

Extend your visit with flexible, self-led options:

  • Museum exploration (I-Spy, coin rubbing, puzzles)
  • Outdoor Roman games
  • Site exploration guidance
  • Nature trail (45-60 mins)
Learning about the Romans

Planning Your Visit

We aim to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Before Your Visit:

On the Day:

  • Welcome and introduction
  • Led or self-guided activities
  • Time to explore the Museum and mosaics

Facilities:

  • Education Room – the Garfield Weston Room is a dedicated education space
  • Lunch space (indoor/outdoor options)
  • Toilets and accessible facilities
  • Minibus parking available (up to 11 metres)
  • Coaches must park on the main road, with pupils walking a short distance to the Museum

Accessibility & Inclusion:
We are committed to making learning accessible for all.

What Teachers Say

“Really informative and engaging.”

“Leader was engaging and was very knowledgeable about the period. Answered all the children’s questions. Children particularly enjoyed the archaeology workshop.”

“It was very fun and educational, and a beautiful place, thank you.”

“The children had lots of opportunities to further their understanding of the Romans through fun, engaging, hands-on activities.”

“Really good value for a wonderful day out for the children who learnt lots.”

Learning about the Romans

Book Your Visit

We’d love to welcome you and your pupils to Brading Roman Villa.

Adult Learning

We can run workshops for adults and their support workers. They would be designed to meet the needs of a specific booking.

Adult groups can book tours of the Museum and talks from our dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers, either at the Museum or in your venue. Please email info@bradingromanvilla.org.uk to enquire about costs.

Home Education

Are you educating your child at home?

Once or twice a year, we run a special session for families included with your museum admission charge. Places must be booked in advance.

Contact education@bradingromanvilla.org.uk to hear about the next session.

Supporting Autistic & Neurodiverse Visitors

A Visual Story is available to assist our visitors.

Sensory Bags are available to borrow for children who might benefit from extra support during their visit. They might include:

  • Gallus cockerel cuddly toy
  • Tangle fidget toy
  • Torch
  • Glitter wand
  • Colour changing paddle
  • Mini magnifying glass
  • Aroma cubes in a wooden box

If you or your child would benefit from a quieter museum experience, you can either:

  • Book during a quieter season e.g. between November and February.
  • Call or email to arrange a special Quiet Museum Monday admission between 10am and 2pm.