The History Squad is a professional historical interpretation company that injects energy into the presentation of history in schools.

We deliver exciting workshops, assemblies and guided castle tours to hundreds of schools across and cover a wide range of topics from the Egyptians to the Second World War making us a great choice for all Key Stages.

Using compelling storytelling, hands-on activities and astounding weaponry displays, we breathe life into history, making it fun for all those involved.

World War 1 Workshop

The format comprises generally of a dramatic presentation by the soldier, question and answer sessions, handling of artefacts, including a blank firing demonstration of the Lee Enfield rifle.

WWI soldier is practically a walking museum, he carries lots of artefacts and personal possessions and the students do get a chance to handle many of these. Our fighting Tommy explains the causes that led to the first world War and takes you from Mons 1914 right through to the Battle of the Somme, opening up the debate ’was Hague a butcher?’ We can also focus on specific areas if requested, such as trench warfare.

I use my own experience as a veteran soldier to enhance the understanding of what it must have been like for the ordinary soldier in the war.

What you should know:

All sessions are flexible; the minimum duration of a single workshop is around 1 hour and the maximum duration is half a day, so sessions can be tailored to suit your timetable and class numbers; we can deliver to whole school assemblies or smaller groups as required (e.g. 2x half day sessions, 3x 1.5hr sessions or 5x 1hr sessions etc.) and can even deliver 2 different topics in one day if required to benefit maximum number of pupils.

The weapons and equipment are heavy and can be dangerous, and can therefore only be handled if the students are orderly and there is room to do so.

We can blank fire the Lee Enfield rifle if required but this needs to be done outside.

Our risk assessment, liability insurance cover, firearms license and DBS certificate are available on request.

Film Clips & Lesson Plans

Online history resource that support teachers with 100s of on-topic film clips available to use in the classroom and share with pupils.