Year 6 recently visited the Imperial War Museum to learn much more about their topic ‘A Child’s War’ and its history focus of World War 2.The museum provided a fantastic insight into what life was like during this troubling period of English history.
We were able to meet the museum’s volunteer veterans and eyewitnesses for a conversation about their personal experiences of conflict. Jack, who served in the Royal Air Force during World War Two, told us all about what his role involved and how he felt when victory was achieved. Paul, who joined the army at the age of 16, talked about his time in Cyprus and Northern Ireland, alongside the trails and tribulations of war.
We also heard all about everyday life in wartime and discussed their extraordinary stories. Their experiences were truly fascinating and helped us to explore the impact of war on people’s lives. The children were able to ask them many questions and really enjoyed meeting them.
We then went on to explore the Museum. Venturing from the First World War, our activity trail took us through the early years of British war right up to our involvement in current conflicts around the world today. The children were able to discover the role of the home front and the dedication of women in the war effort. We were also shown the importance of remembrance and how we should learn from history.
To end our day, we were able to watch the museum’s ‘Big Picture Show’, which was based on children and how they are affect during wartime. For some, it put into prospective, just how lucky we are. We used the visit in our English writing to create discussion texts, letters and diary entries.
