44 students from the City of Stoke on Trent Sixth Form College were able to experience the unusual presentation of the past at the Imperial War Museum in Manchester. The museum itself has the attraction of being designed by the internationally acclaimed architect Daniel Libeskind. His unique design includes a sloping floor to symbolise the disorientating effect of war.
The permanent exhibitions of the impact of war in the 20th Century, with the role of technology, the contribution of the Empire and Commonwealth, and the role of women were examples of the topics which made up the focus of the day. The temporary exhibition this year was on children’s war stories with Michael Murpurgo’s “War Horse” being one of those featured.
Charles Turner, Curriculum Manager for History said that the trip provided a useful bridge from AS to A2. “Our curriculum at AS and A2 is complimentary with courses on nationalism in India and Africa, Civil Rights in the USA and war in the 20th Century. The Imperial War Museum in Manchester has a perfect focus looking at various aspects of the impact of war.”
The students were also very positive about their experience. “I thought the History trip was really good. I learnt a lot of interesting facts and I liked the fact that they had objects from the war in the exhibits like the jump jet and the Russian tank. I also thought the Special exhibit 'Once Upon A Wartime' was great. I liked going up to the top of the tower as well. I really enjoyed the trip and I'm really glad I went”, said Martha Griggs.
“I really enjoyed the trip, and was surprised to see sections in the museum on recent affairs, such as the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq”, said Luke Scrivens.