Beaumanor Hall!

On the last day of term, we travelled back to 1939 and became evacuees for the day at Beaumanor Hall. As part of their WW2 curriculum in History, we wanted to enhance their learning by giving the children the opportunity to take part in role-playing activities and experiences.

During WW2, Beaumanor was instrumental in the effort to break the German Enigma code and the day draws heavily from this rich history. Our pupils and staff dressed as evacuees and were sent to Beaumanor to escape from the bombings.

First, the Foxes took in their surroundings by visiting the replica public shelter, giving them the experience of what it would have been like during a real air-raid. A siren sounded and the children got to experience, first-hand, what it would have been like. Some described it as terrifying, others described it as exciting and many feelings in between. We discussed what people would have done to keep themselves entertained while in the shelter and how they would have known when it was safe to come out. We even had a visit from Father Christmas, who gave each child a special Beaumanor Hall pencil!

Next, in an original WW2 camouflaged radio building, the children recreated the purpose of Beaumanor during WW2 by listening for secret codes over real radio frequencies. They were then tasked with the activity of decoding the messages that came through, to replicate what would have happened at places such as Bletchley Park. They were brilliant at this!

After lunch, the children were issued with replica Identity Cards to complete as well as given the opportunity to make a Christmas decoration and a Christmas card.

The day was educational and interesting and was enjoyed thoroughly by all the children. They represented Repton Primary School positively and we are proud of them for their enthusiasm and involvement on the day.