The Kitchen Knight: The Tale of King Arthur by Margaret Hodges tells the story of a young man named Gareth, who begins his journey as a humble kitchen servant but dreams of becoming a knight. Through courage, kindness, and determination, Gareth proves his worth, ultimately earning respect and knighthood from King Arthur. The story teaches young readers the values of humility, bravery, and perseverance, showing that true honor comes from helping others and staying true to oneself.

We incorporate The Kitchen Knight into our literature-based curriculum through interactive lessons and activities. Here are a few examples:

• Creative Writing: Inspired by the chivalrous deeds and moral challenges faced by the Kitchen Knight, students craft their own tales of adventure and heroism. Students reflect on the virtues such as bravery, loyalty, and kindness, the attributes that make a true hero.
• History Integration: We delve into the historical context of King Arthur's legend, allowing students to explore the blend of myth and history that surrounds this iconic figure and his knights. This opens up discussions on the historical accuracy versus mythological elements of the stories and their impact on modern perceptions of the medieval period.
• Art Projects: Students express their understanding and interpretation of the story through art by designing their own coat of arms or creating a medieval scene that depicts key moments from the book.
• Critical Thinking and Ethics: Through guided discussions, students examine the moral dilemmas and decisions faced by the characters in the book. They debate the choices of the knight, compare them to modern-day scenarios, and consider the implications of their actions.