This week the KS3 students experienced a thought-provoking trip to the Imperial War Museum in London. The visit formed a key part of their History Curriculum, enhancing their understanding of World War 1. The was a day filled with active learning, reflection and emotional connection to the past.
The day’s focus was a museum-led session on a ‘Documentary War Challenge’. This was led by the museum expert who guided us though our challenge to create 60 second, mini documentaries which were directed, using a clapperboard, filmed, using a device and presented, using a ‘dummy’ microphone by the students.
The workshop gave the students the opportunity to create their own films about War History using museum literature, films and objects from 1914 – 1918 for inspiration. Due to their engagement and participation, it was evident that the exhibition had a positive impact and their interests developed as they moved around.
Our students went into the WWI and WWII galleries seeing many of the weapons used including a Howitzer, a V2 Rocket, and a Spitfire and walked through a trench. They listened to soldiers’ personal accounts and examined many items close up. These exhibitions were rich with original artefacts and an immersive display which brought the war to life.
All students approached the exhibition with remarkable maturity, asking many thoughtful questions and showing empathy and respect throughout.