Pupils at Chapel Haddlesey, Burton and Barlow schools stepped back in time this week as Chapel Haddlesey school hosted a captivating World War Two Immersion Day, complete with authentic artifacts, hands-on learning, and living history experiences that brought the wartime era vividly to life.
The day began with a special visit from RAF Snaith and Squadron X, a dedicated World War Two reenactment group. The team arrived with an impressive collection of genuine and replica wartime artifacts — from RAF uniforms and flying helmets to ration books and everyday items from the 1940s. Pupils had the chance to try on authentic clothing and equipment, gaining a sense of what life was like for service members and civilians during the war.
Members of Squadron X shared stories from local airmen and women, linking national history to the school’s own community. These personal tales helped pupils understand the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience shown on both the home and battle fronts.
In the afternoon, pupils gathered around a forest school campfire led by Miss Ducat, a teacher and Girl Guide leader. She transported the children back to the 1940s, explaining the remarkable role of the Girl Guides during the war, who helped feed those left homeless by bombings and cared for the wounded. The campfire setting created an atmospheric backdrop for the stories of teamwork, service, and community spirit that defined the wartime years.
The day continued in the classroom, where Mrs Smith (the school’s cookery lead) led a WW2 baking session. Using only rationed ingredients, pupils learned how to make traditional carrot biscuits, a recipe used to sweeten treats when sugar was scarce. The children were fascinated by how families adapted to food shortages, and many were surprised at how tasty the simple recipe was.
To finish, pupils compared the ration packs of WW2 soldiers with modern military rations, sparking discussions about nutrition, technology, and how wartime innovations still influence the armed forces today.
