Wartime Thanet and how people lived through the challenging years of conflict has taken children from St Gregory’s Catholic Primary in Margate on trip back in time.
During an exciting and educational visit to Ramsgate their classroom learning about the Second World War was brought vividly to life.
Their journey of discovery began with a fascinating tour of the Ramsgate Tunnels, the vast network of underground passageways that once served as one of the largest civilian air raid shelters in the country.
Carved deep beneath the town, the tunnels provided refuge for thousands of residents during bombing raids. Children learned how families would spend long periods underground, with the tunnels equipped with lighting, bunks, toilets, and even a railway system to transport people to safety.
The visit helped pupils understand the realities of life on the home front and the importance of community resilience during wartime.
The group also explored the wider role of Thanet during the war – situated on the Kent coast, the area was on the frontline due to its proximity to mainland Europe.
Pupils discovered how Ramsgate harbour played a crucial role in Operation Dynamo, the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk in 1940, when hundreds of “little ships” set sail to rescue stranded soldiers. They also learned about the constant threat of air raids and how the region’s coastal position made it a key defensive location.
Next stop was the RAF Hurricane and Spitfire Museum, where their learning continued in an inspiring and hands-on way. Surrounded by historic aircraft, children were able to see real World War 2 planes up close and even experience sitting in a cockpit, sparking curiosity and excitement.
The interactive exhibits allowed them to deepen their understanding of aviation history and the role of the Royal Air Force during the war.
As part of their learning, some children dressed as evacuees in period outfits and with giant name tags; other dressed in wartime uniforms complete with medal ribbons.
Assistant Head Teacher Athanasia Papa-Adams said: “Children’s learning came to life as they learnt about Thanet in the war.
“The tunnels and the museum are right on our doorstep and brought everything they had learnt this term to life. It was an awesome experience for them and they were able to recall everything they had learnt.”
Head Teacher Dave Walker said that St Gregory’s believes that educational visits are valuable in enhancing knowledge learnt in class and that it benefits understanding of a range of subject work, in this case how war impacted the local community.
He said: “The World War 2 visit proved to be a memorable experience, combining local history with immersive learning opportunities and leaving pupils with a lasting appreciation of the sacrifices and stories of those who lived through the long years of war.”
