News Year 8 Explore Roman Life at Fishbourne Palace 22.04.2026

In April, the Classics department took Year 8 to Fishbourne Roman Palace. The visit provided a valuable extension to their studies of Latin and Roman culture this year, bringing the subject to life. 

The group spent time studying the remarkably complete mosaics in the Palace’s north wing, where designs such as Cupid on a Dolphin and Medusa can still be admired. They also explored the carefully reconstructed gardens, planted in keeping with the Roman design, and experienced the layout of a summer triclinium (dining room). 

A highlight of the day was the artefact workshop, where students examined objects excavated from the site. These included domestic pottery, animal bone fragments, masonry and glassware. Encouraged to think like archaeologists, they considered how such items were used and what they reveal about the daily lives of the people who lived at the Palace. Several students also enjoyed the opportunity to try on replicas of Roman clothing. 

The visit was enriching and thoroughly enjoyable, offering students a deeper understanding of Roman Britain.