During the visit, pupils took part in a series of interactive workshops designed to help them understand what life was like during wartime. They learned how families used ration books, explored the importance of the “make do and mend” campaign and discovered how clothing and household items were repaired and reused.

Pupils dressed in period clothing and took part in role-play activities aboard the museum’s famous Tivvy Bumper exhibit.

They also examined the contents of an evacuee’s suitcase, explored wartime artefacts and experienced sitting inside an Anderson shelter while listening to the sound of an air raid siren.

The trip formed part of the school’s wider approach to bringing learning to life through memorable experiences that deepen understanding and spark curiosity.

Cranbrook Education Campus, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is committed to providing engaging learning opportunities that help pupils connect classroom learning with the wider world and develop a deeper understanding of history and society.

Stephen Farmer, Head of Campus at Cranbrook Education Campus, said:

“It was wonderful to see our pupils so engaged in their learning and really stepping into the experiences of children during the Second World War. Opportunities like this bring history to life in a way that captures their imagination and helps deepen their understanding back in the classroom.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said:
“Experiences like this are such an important part of a broad education, giving pupils the chance to learn in different settings and build confidence through memorable, real-world learning.”