Vikings: Raider vs Trader
Step into a world of conquest, curiosity… and cloaks!
Your pupils are about to become Vikings for the day. But not just any Vikings – they’ll walk in the footsteps of Siggurd, a Norse warrior seeking to settle in a strange land. Will they advise him to build bridges and trade? Or sharpen their axes for battle? This unforgettable history workshop invites pupils to explore one of the most fascinating dilemmas of the Viking Age.
Siggurd’s Choice – Settle or Seize?
Meet Siggurd – part of the Great Viking Army, a seasoned warrior, and your pupils’ guide for the day. He has arrived on this island with his fellow Norsemen, and he faces a choice: Should they make peace with the Saxons and become trusted trading partners? Or should they strike fear into the hearts of the locals and take what they need by force?
Learning About Viking Survival
In this dynamic, fully-immersive workshop, pupils will step into Viking shoes – or rather, boots – and help Siggurd navigate the complexities of conflict, diplomacy, and survival.
Set against the backdrop of real events from Viking history, this session invites pupils to experience both warrior life and merchant adventure first-hand.
Why the Vikings?
The Vikings were fearless explorers, skilled traders and fierce warriors who left a lasting mark on the world. From their legendary long-ships to their bold raids across Europe and beyond, their story is one of adventure, innovation and cultural exchange. They didn’t just conquer – they settled, traded and shaped the very language, place names and customs we still see across the UK today. Their legacy is a thrilling chapter in history, rich with myths, mystery and real-world impact that continues to fascinate pupils and historians alike.
Action-packed activities that bring Viking history to life!
Throughout the day, pupils will:
- Debate and decide: should Siggurd trade… or raid?
- Throw replica axes at unsuspecting Saxon monks
- Fire safe arrows at fearsome Norse monsters
- Form a real Viking shield wall using replica shields
- Try on cloaks, helmets, and warrior gear
- Handle an extensive collection of replica Viking weaponry
- Explore authentic artefacts from across the Viking world
- Select grave goods and re-create a Viking burial
- Take part in a mystery trader activity box, featuring items gathered from across the globe
Viking Workshop Structure
We aim to offer your pupils a structured day packed with adventure and learning.
Morning
- Welcome from Siggurd and dramatic introduction to the Great Viking Army
- Pupils explore the dilemma of raiding vs trading
- Viking drills, warrior chants, shield formations
- Handle and try on armour, helmets, cloaks and clothing
- Axe throwing and archery challenges
Afternoon
- Merchant challenge: discover mystery artefacts from around the Viking world
- Burial activity: select grave goods and learn about Viking beliefs
- Tactical team activities and shield wall games
- A final decision: will your class choose to raid or trade?
Finale
- Recap and reflection: what kind of Viking will you be?
- A battle charge (with sponge arrows!) and defensive shield formation against ferocious Norse monsters
Learning Outcomes
This workshop supports KS2 learning goals and brings key elements of the curriculum to life. By the end of the session, pupils will:
- Understand the importance of warrior life to Viking society
- Explore Viking beliefs and identify Norse gods and goddesses
- Learn about the conflict and collaboration between Saxons and Vikings
- Identify key events from the Viking Age, including the Lindisfarne raid and the Great Heathen Army
- Discover the legacy of Viking boat building and seafaring
- Explore how Vikings traded, travelled and influenced modern life
- Pupils will understand lasting legacy of Vikings upon modern language, days of week, place names, politics
- Experience the value of teamwork, strategy and empathy through role play and physical activities
Cross-Curricular Value
Our Viking Experience fits perfectly into your broader teaching ideas, helping to bring history in schools to life with immersive, pupil-led learning. It supports both historical understanding and wider educational goals – from teamwork and communication to critical thinking and physical coordination. Ideal for history workshops for primary schools, teacher activities or enrichment weeks.
Whether you’re looking for exciting ideas for teaching or unique lesson ideas, this day offers the perfect mix of engagement, education and fun.
Extend the Journey
Why stop at one adventure?
Many schools choose to book multiple workshops or create themed activity days across the term. Our other popular immersive experiences include:
- Romans: Soldier Life & Battle Tactics – march like a legionary, build a fort, and uncover the secrets of the Roman Empire.
- Greeks: Spartan Warrior Challenge – train as a Spartan soldier, form a phalanx, and explore Ancient Greek education and values.
- Boudicca vs Romans – Dive into the dramatic clash between the fearless Iceni queen and the mighty Roman Empire in this action-packed workshop exploring rebellion, resistance and Roman rule in Britain.
The Vikings in Morocco?
Did you know the Vikings reached North Africa? In the 860s, Bjorn Ironside – legendary son of Ragnar Lothbrok – led a Viking raid on North Morocco. There, he clashed with the Berber Kingdom of the Moors. Legend has it that the Berber king lost a hand during the battle. After eight days, the Vikings moved on to continue their raids across the Mediterranean.
The Berber or Amazigh people (meaning “free people”) are among the oldest inhabitants of North Africa, known for their nomadic traditions and rich cultural history. Some artefacts inspired by their heritage are now part of our trader activity box – giving pupils the chance to handle, identify and discuss mystery objects from the wider Viking world.
“When we’ve done previous trips, they don’t immerse themselves in the same way as they did when you were here… it was incredible!”
Year 3 Teacher, Cromer Junior School
Booking Information
The Viking Experience will be available for schools to book from September 2025. Sessions are designed for KS2 pupils and can be delivered as a standalone activity day or as part of a broader programme of history experiences. Get in touch early to secure your preferred dates!
Get in Touch With Us Today
School History Visits 