What is the role of our Queen?

Queen Elizabeth II is the longest reigning monarch in British history, having reigned for 70 years.

The Queen is a constitutional monarch, meaning that, whilst the Sovereign is Head of State, it is an elected Parliament that can make and pass legislation, rather than the monarch.

The Queen still has a very important part to play in the life of the nation, undertaking constitutional and representational duties and she carries out a busy programme of engagements, including visiting charities (for a number of which she acts as Royal Patron or President), hosting visiting Heads of State, or taking part in annual programmes of investitures, garden parties, receptions and other ceremonies.

Explore the Platinum Jubilee Story Map, created by Historic England, to discover some of the places across England that The Queen has visited during her reign. These may include historic buildings and locations local to your school.

Known for her sense of duty and her devotion to a life of service, she has been a figurehead for the UK and the Commonwealth during times of enormous change. Her roles are both important and wide-ranging and she is supported in her work by members of the Royal Family.

A film has been created telling the story of Elizabeth II’s 70 years as Queen using genuine historical sources from The National Archives and The Royal Collection. It includes music and some original footage from the period.