THE TRENCHES of the First World War came to life for students at a Rugby secondary school during a hands-on living history session.
Over 500 students at The Avon Valley School and Performing Arts College were given an insight into the conflict by living historian and expert David Allton from Frontline Living History.
During the hour-long workshops, students learned about weapons, wounds, and the experiences endured by soldiers more than 110 years ago.
They had the opportunity to see and handle relics from the period, including uniforms, weapons, battlefield shrapnel, and even a trench periscope.
The sessions provided a valuable insight for Year 10 and 11 students in advance of their GCSE History exams.
Younger students also found the sessions valuable. Year 8 student Nancy said: “It was amazing to see all of the equipment and weapons that were used by soldiers in the First World War.
“I’ve always loved history, but hearing about the soldiers’ experiences has made me even more interested in this topic, which I am currently learning about in my lessons.
“I think it was really unfair that women would give men white feathers for not being in the army, and I can’t believe that boys aged 14 and 15 were able to join the army to fight, as they are almost the same age as me.
“I’d really like to learn more about how soldiers lived in the trenches and what they did after the war ended. One day I’d like to visit the battlefields where the fighting took place.”
History teacher Dan Phelan said: “Earlier in the year we applied for, and successfully obtained, a £500 grant from the Western Front Association, which went a long way towards funding this experience for our students.
“As time passes, the events of the past become increasingly distant and, without opportunities like this, risk being forgotten. We are therefore very grateful to the WFA for helping us make this event possible for the benefit of over 500 of our students.”
Headteacher Blake Francis said students were thoroughly engaged throughout the sessions.
He added: “It is always valuable to welcome external speakers to work with our students, as this really helps bring their learning to life. David was fantastic, and our students gained a great deal from the workshops and questions they asked.”
