Students deliver exceptional work from Auschwitz programme

A group of four historians were successful in their application to be part of the national Auschwitz programme, run by the Holocaust Educational Trust.  The Year 13 students completed two days’ work whilst at college and then finished the project in their own time. Phoebe Whitbread, Archie Marshall, Patrick Carlton, and Katie Hyman produced exceptional work and, as part of the ‘Next Steps’ element of the scheme, they created a fabulous display in the Sixth Form Study Centre that their peers and teachers can browse to find out more.

In addition, Archie put together an assembly which he presented to all the sixth form students on 24^th and 25^th January. Archie said: “The Lessons from Auschwitz Project gave me an insight into the contemporary relevance of the Holocaust, as well as humanising those involved in a way that has completely changed my perspective and left a long-lasting impression. Although we were taught virtually, I felt a connection to the events that I never had before, thanks to the excellent subject experts and testimony from survivors. I would thoroughly recommend this project to anyone interested in History and its relevance in our society today.” You can see Archie’s assembly HERE.

Miss Ridley, History Teacher, said: “The students have done a remarkable job. They have immersed themselves in the project and really researched and explored the Holocaust. On completion of the online seminars, they reflected on everything they learned and consolidated their knowledge, culminating in their inspirational display and assembly. It is so important that we continue to remember this important part of History and their work has created something very meaningful to help the other students understand the Holocaust and its relevance today. I am very proud of the students’ outstanding work and their faultless dedication over the last two years.”

The students took part in three live online seminars guided by experts in the field of Holocaust education. They learned about pre-war Jewish life and the former Nazi death and concentration camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, and considered the contemporary relevance of the Holocaust. Having completed the programme, the students will become Holocaust Educational Trust Ambassadors, inspiring them to continue to share their knowledge further whilst encouraging others to remember the Holocaust.

The Holocaust Educational Trust was established in 1988 with the aim of educating young people from every background about the Holocaust and the important lessons to be learned for today. One of the Trust’s earliest achievements was ensuring that the Holocaust formed part of the National Curriculum for History. Through the Trust’s work they motivate future generations to speak out against intolerance and inspire individuals to consider their responsibilities to their communities. Further information about the Trust can be found at https://www.het.org.uk/

After their A-levels, Phoebe will be studying History at university and Katie will read Asian Studies, which will include Asian History. Patrick and Archie are planning to study Law and Physiotherapy.