Learning programme

War Memorials Trust is developing a youth focused Learning Programme. With the forthcoming centenary of the outbreak of World War I and the passing of those who directly experienced the World Wars, war memorials are changing from living history to historical touchstones. Education is therefore crucial to ensure that those conflicts are not forgotten and that the memorials to the fallen continue to be preserved. War Memorials Trust aims to educate young people about the history and significance of our war memorials and encourage them, the next generation of memorial custodians, to take an active part in memorial conservation and protection.

The Learning Officer responsible for the development of the Learning Programme is Ruth Cavender, who joined the Trust in August 2011. If you would like to make any suggestions for the Learning Programme, have any questions about it, or are interested in getting involved please contact Ruth at learning@warmemorials.org or on 020 7834 0200.

The Learning Programme will offer an exciting mix of curriculum linked activities and plans to be used by teachers and pupils in schools. It will also contain materials that could be used to support the syllabuses of groups such as Cadets and Scouts, Duke of Edinburgh Award participants, extra curricular clubs, or individuals who are simply interested in contributing to this important aspect of their community. War Memorials Trust believes that war memorials can form a meaningful part of young people’s work and educational activities throughout the year, not only around Remembrance Day.

The Trust’s learning website, www.learnaboutwarmemorials.org, will contain details of the materials and activities on offer. This is currently being developed and will also feature a Showcase of examples of war memorial-linked work carried out by young people. Please go to our Plans for the Learning Programme page for more information.