Visit to Imperial War Museum and People's History Museum
**Headline: History and Politics Students Immerse Themselves in Enriching Museum Visits**
For students studying History and Politics, a trip to two renowned museums – the Imperial War Museum in London and the People’s History Museum in Manchester – offers a unique blend of immersive learning, firsthand engagement with historical artefacts, and thought-provoking discussions.
**Imperial War Museum (London)**
The Imperial War Museum provides a comprehensive exploration of major modern conflicts, including World War I, World War II, and the Holocaust. Students can delve into survivor testimonies, handle personal artefacts, and examine authentic military equipment such as aircraft (Spitfires, Harrier jump jets), tanks, and weapons.
Interactive learning is at the heart of the museum's approach, with guided discussions and hands-on activities designed to foster empathy and a deeper understanding. Workshops are sensitive and engaging, encouraging reflection on the human impact of historical events.
Visits to the museum are directly linked to school curricula, providing context and depth to classroom learning. Opportunities include exploring original artefacts, immersive displays (such as trench and Blitz experiences), and interactive demonstrations. The museum is open to the public and school groups, with free admission, and school bookings for the 2025/26 academic year are now available.
**People’s History Museum (Manchester)**
The People’s History Museum focuses on the history of working people in Britain, including struggles for democracy, workers’ rights, and social justice. Students can engage with interactive displays, original campaign materials, and artefacts related to British political history.
Schools can book guided tours and workshops that link to key curriculum topics in History and Politics, encouraging discussion and critical thinking. The museum offers a valuable opportunity for students to connect historical events with real-world impact, develop critical thinking, and deepen their understanding of key topics in History and Politics.
**A Successful Enrichment Experience**
Students were able to dress up as NHS doctors, Suffragettes, and other historical figures during the visit. Brian Cieslak, a History and Politics student, enjoyed the interactive activities at the museum, as well as learning about the history of the people and the political process. Martha Blinston, another History student, appreciated the women's rights sections at the People's History Museum.
The History and Politics department organized a trip for Upper Sixth students to Manchester, which included visits to both museums. The students found the day informative overall, with Brian Cieslak and Martha Blinston both expressing their appreciation for the enriching experience. The department continues to offer such opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of history and politics.
- "The immersive learning experiences offered at the Imperial War Museum and the People's History Museum not only enrich the education of History and Politics students but also extend beyond the classroom, promoting understanding in general news and political topics."
- "Engaging with historical artifacts at the Imperial War Museum and the People's History Museum not only helps History and Politics students to grasp the human impact of major conflicts and political struggles but also equips them with the necessary critical thinking skills for understanding broader general news and political events."
