History Around Us the story of the prisoners at Portchester Castle

Learn about the political and historical importance of Portchester Castle through the lives and plays of the French Prisoners of War who were imprisoned there in 1810. By examining the physical structure of the castle, using source materials and getting involved with practical activities, students will better understand how prisoners came to be held at the castle, what life was like there and immerse themselves in their story at the place it happened. They’ll discover why the theatre was created in the keep, learn about melodrama and Roseliska, the play written by the prisoners. They will even be put through their acting paces! This Discovery Visit is applicable to OCR GCSE Spec B History Around Us and covers multiple criteria including the international significance of the castle and the reasons for the location of the site within its surroundings.