Students at West Bromwich Collegiate Academy explored the realities of the First World War through an immersive visit from Frontline Living History.
Living historian and experienced teacher David Allton visited the Academy with a collection of authentic artefacts, bringing the realities of the First World War closer to students. They examined historical equipment and explored the experiences of those who lived and served during the conflict.
Founded in 2014, Frontline Living History delivers curriculum-linked education experiences that encourage and help young people to actively engage with the past and understand how historical events continue to shape the world today. Since its creation, the organisation has delivered more than 500 in-school workshops, battlefield tours, community projects and supported a range of TV and film projects.
During the visit, Year 8 students explored their upcoming Over the Top theme as part of the Academy’s Literacy for Life (L4L) curriculum. The topic explores the key events of the First World War and the experiences of those on the Western Front and the Home Front. The session provided students with a powerful introduction to their learning, helping to spark curiosity and enthusiasm ahead of their future lessons.
Year 10 students took part in a dedicated revision session linked to their historic environment studies in the structured programme ‘Medicine Through Time’. The activity strengthened their understanding of medical developments and the role they played during periods of conflict.
Students handled artefacts, explored the challenges faced by soldiers on the front line and took part in activities that brought their classroom studies to life. One of the most memorable moments saw students step into the role of stretcher bearers, offering a powerful insight into the realities faced on the battlefield.
The Academy also opened the session to students from across all year groups after school, allowing learners and staff to explore the artefacts, ask questions and develop their interest in history.
Associate Principal, Hannah Percival, said: “History has the unique power to help people understand not just what happened in the past, but why it still matters today and how these events have shaped the world.
“Having David share his expertise and bring these artefacts into the Academy gave our students a connection to the past that simply can’t be replicated in the classroom or through textbooks alone. These experiences encourage students to think more deeply, ask better questions and see the relevance of their learning beyond the classroom.”
The visit gave students the chance to step beyond the pages of their textbooks and connect with the people, places and experiences behind the First World War, helping them develop a deeper appreciation of the human stories that shaped the conflict.
