Year 5 had an inspiring and emotional trip exploring WWII history through our Evacuation Day and trip to the D-Day Museum.

Our trip to the D-Day Museum started with a guided tour around the museum, learning about the bravery and planning behind D-Day. We studied the detailed Overlord Embroidery, a huge artwork showing every major event of the day. We saw a real landing carrier used in the invasion, imagining the dangerous journey across the sea. In a workshop, we explored different wartime roles, acting as messengers, land girls, wardens and even evacuees, discovering how everyone played a part in the war effort.

Evacuation Day began with a rationing activity. We were given replica coupons and had to decide what essentials to spend them on. Choosing between food, clothing or treats helped us understand the tough decisions families faced. We then took on the role of an evacuee, wearing labels and carrying mock suitcases. Through storytelling and discussion, we compared the different experiences of evacuees—those welcomed with warmth, and others who struggled with loneliness or change. We also played real WWII children’s games, laughing as children once did, even in difficult times. The most powerful moment came when a visitor shared his own childhood memories of being evacuated during the war. Hearing a real story made history feel personal and emotional.