Humanities Faculty in Focus

(23 February 2010) This year marks the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II.

The Second World War was a highly destructive war that destroyed civilian populations, changed governments, altered borders and fostered the drive towards new weaponry. Those who survived it never forgot it and some were unable to return to normality afterwards.

For some people it introduced new respect, whilst for others it created opportunities to change things and challenge previously accepted injustices.
It was also a turning point for international understanding and cooperation. The global death toll, including the Holocaust and civilian casualties as well as military, is estimated at 50 million.

Therefore it seems very appropriate that we mark this anniversary.

On Friday 7th May 2010, 65 years to the day since the end of the war in Europe, Cirencester Deer Park School will be holding a commemorative day of events, involving a wide variety of learning experiences so that pupils can develop a greater understanding of the legacy of the Second World War.

Key Stage 3 pupils will be given the opportunity to look at the legacy of American music on British popular culture when they learn to Lindy-Hop, in addition to investigating the sounds of Swing and Big Band music. Pupils will also get the opportunity to “Make Do and Mend” and “Dig For Victory”. It is also important that pupils understand the social and economic developments as well as technological improvements made because of the consequences of the War.

Key Stage 4 pupils will be focusing on the Legacy of the Holocaust and looking at the lessons which can be learnt for the modern day in terms of challenging prejudice and intolerance. We intend to involve guest speakers including Holocaust survivors.This is an excellent opportunity to apply pupils’ current curriculum learning to much wider global issues.

You can find out more about World War II on

BBC: World War Two
Wikipedia