Schaumburg, IL – November 19, 2025 – The 7th grade students of PBL Junior High School embarked on an exciting and educational field trip to Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in Schaumburg, Illinois, on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. This excursion served as a thrilling culmination to their "Identity in the Middle Ages" unit, a key component of their new ELA curriculum.
Throughout the school year, these students delved into the medieval period through extensive research, reading, and narrative writing. The trip to Medieval Times provided an interactive and immersive experience, bringing their classroom studies to life. Students witnessed live performances, exhilarating jousting tournaments, historical reenactments, and enjoyed a traditional medieval meal.
The PBL Junior High School community extends its deepest gratitude to the PBL Education Foundation for their generous grant. This funding covered the cost of tickets, lunch, and transportation for all 7th grade students, ensuring that this enriching academic experience was accessible to everyone.
Upon arrival, students were transported to a world where kingdoms unite in celebration, though rumors of betrayal hint at impending drama. They were captivated by intense sword fights and jousting, as six valiant knights competed for the title of defender of the realm. The two-hour tournament featured magnificent horses, authentic combat, and a delicious feast, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Student Reflections
The students were overwhelmingly enthusiastic about the trip, with many sharing their favorite moments:
"Probably my favorite part was the food. It was literally so so so so so so so so so so so so good!" - Saylor Wooten
"I would like to thank you for giving me and my grade the experience at Medieval Times!" - Brandon Tuell
"I loved all of the horses and the jousting. Medieval Times was great!" - Kinley Bloomstrand
"I was skeptical of the food, but then I gave in and it was really good! I wish to thank you." - Wyatt Wintjen
"The experience was so cool and intriguing. My favorite part was the falcon flying all around the stadium." - Charlotte Duncan
"I would love to have more field trips like this because it was so awesome. Thank you!" - Brayden Young
"I loved getting a flower from the knight!" - Persephone Long
"I just want to say thank you so much for funding the trip, and it is the most fun and crazy experience that I ever went to." - Michael Tjarks
"My favorite part of the trip was eating the food while watching the sparks fly off the swords. Thank you for letting this be possible, I will never forget that day." - Jace Simmons
"The garlic bread was delectable. I loved that we could go and I hope that the grades below us have the opportunity to go too. I am forever thankful!" - Louise Foster
"Thank you for letting me get a day off from school and an awesome trip!" - Tomasi Suaava
"My mom got to go on the trip with me and she had a great time!" - Aubrey Dirks
Click on the following link for pictures and highlights from the 7th Grade Field Trip - Medieval Times - November 19, 2025