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The History of the Traditions of Christmas and New Year in the British Isles

Discover the Celtic, Viking and Roman origins of the different winter festivals that come together in Christmas and New Year, and find out how people in the UK celebrated Yuletide, Hogmanay, the Winter Solstice, and more.
Helena England, BA Hons, PGCE, MA
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(205)
Class

What's included

1 live meeting
45 mins in-class hours
Homework
I am a qualified teacher in the UK and have been teaching history to students for over 25 years, I have an Advanced Level qualification in history, and also undertake research as part of my current role.

Class Experience

US Grade 4 - 7
This one-time class will trace the Celtic, Viking and Roman festivals that took place in the cold, dark winters of the British Isles, and that form some of the Christmas and New Year traditions that we know today.  Come and discover the significance of holly, ivy and mistletoe.  We'll also find out about customs such as Yule logs, Mari Lwyd from Wales, Hogmanay from Scotland, banging the bread from Ireland, and so much more!
My classes are friendly and relaxed, with plenty of time for learners to add their thoughts and comments as we go along.  I would also love to find out how they may celebrate any winter festivals themselves.
I aim to be inclusive; if your learner has additional needs, please do let me know - I will do my best to adapt my class and teaching so they can enjoy it too.

If you would like this class scheduled at a different time, just get in touch; I may be able to help.

Please note this class is about the origins of Christmas and New Year, and does not discuss Christmas from a religious point of view.
Learning Goals
Students will have an understanding of the origins and traditions of a range of winter festivals from the UK that come together in the modern Christmas festivals.
learning goal

Other Details

Supply List
A fact file sheet will be sent in advance so that learners can record what they have learnt.  This can be completed in class or after class.  It is, of course, optional.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
My sources include but are not limited to: The Old Magic of Christmas - Linda Raetlisch Pagan Christmas - Christian Ratsch The Winter Solstice - Ancient Traditions of Christmas - John Matthews Celtic Mythology - Philip Freeman
Joined July, 2020
5.0
205reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am a qualified teacher in the UK and have been teaching history to students for over 25 years,  I have an Advanced Level qualification in history, and also undertake research as part of my current role.

Reviews

Live One-Time Class
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$16

per class
Meets once
45 min

Completed by 37 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-14
3-6 learners per class

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