To support their learning of the First World War and to contribute to the College’s Remembrance Day 2021 commemorations, students at Heathfield Community College took take part in workshops provided by the National Archives on Monday 8th November.
The one-hour workshop took place during the school day with a professional actor playing the role of Henry Fairhurst, a real-life soldier who enlisted and fought in the First World War. Through live-streaming, ‘Henry Fairhurst’ was able to describe what it was like to enlist and fight during the First World War.
Students had the opportunity to ask him questions about his experiences, from the weapons used to the conditions in the trenches. Students had been preparing for the sessions in the weeks beforehand, looking at primary evidence that explored Henry’s life during the war.
The National Archives sessions are part of a series of events that students are engaging in to mark Remembrance Day on 11th November. Students across the College will take part in assemblies and use tutor time to explore how Remembrance is commemorated in Britain and across the world, recognising the extent of global conflicts such as the First and Second World wars, and conflicts that have taken place in the world since 1945.
Artefacts from local East Sussex company, Hands on History, will also be used in the teaching of the First World War at the College n the fortnight beginning 8th November to further help students explore this conflict.
The College marked Remembrance Day with a 2-minute silence at 11 o’clock on 11th November accompanied by the last post played by Year 11 student Jem Kite. A moving Remembrance address was also provided by Rev. Mitchell from Heathfield Benefice which is available online.
Emma Smith, Curriculum Leader for History said, “The week of Remembrance is always a poignant time for the College, a time to reflect on the sacrifices and bravery of many who have fought in conflict and have helped to shape the world we live in today. The various activities that students will be engaging in over the course of the week provide a platform for reflection and to develop awareness of the importance of Remembrance”
Headteacher Caroline Barlow praised staff and students “we would usually take Year 8 to the Battlefields in Ypres at this time but a brilliant combination of online and face-to-face experiences are a real a testament to the expertise and ingenuity of staff in this post-lockdown-non-travelling environment as well as the compassion and integrity of students who have fully embraced the breadth of what is available to them, showing understanding, knowledge and empathy.”