Last week, Year 5 were treated to an unforgettable visit from Mrs Roberts, who graciously shared her vivid memories of life during the Second World War. She transported the children to a world far removed from their own, offering a compelling and personal insight into everyday life in the 1940s.

The chidlren were captivated as Mrs Roberts described what it was like to grow up without modern conveniences such as television, central heating, or telephones. Afternoons were spent playing outdoors by streams, and winters were so cold that frost would form inside the house, thick enough to be scraped from the windows with a spoon. She recalled families heating water over a fire for baths and getting dressed under blankets to stay warm. Despite the hardships, she fondly remembered the simple pleasures of countryside living, from keeping chickens to foraging for mushrooms, blackberries, and rosehips.

One of the most engaging moments of the visit came when Mrs Roberts spoke about rationing. She brought her original wartime identity card and ration book, which the pupils eagerly passed around. The handwritten entries and government stamps offered a tangible connection to the past. She also showcased examples of a typical weekly food ration: five rashers of bacon, a single egg, a small block of cheese, 4–6 tea bags, and a jar of jam intended to last two months. Milk was restricted to only a small measure, with many families relying on powdered milk and egg substitutes. A single packet of minced beef, she explained, often had to stretch across an entire week.

The children were intrigued to learn how resourceful families became, mending and reusing clothes and adapting to food shortages by growing vegetables anywhere they could. Mrs Roberts also spoke about the crucial role of women during the war, from factory work to serving in the Women's Land Army.

Her stories brought the era to life in a way textbooks cannot. The children left the session with a deep appreciation for the resilience, creativity, and determination shown by people during wartime, as well as a renewed understanding of the importance of avoiding food waste.

At Chinthurst, we believe that hands-on, real-life encounters like this enrich learning far beyond what can be achieved in a classroom alone. Experiences that bring history to life not only deepen understanding but make a lasting impression on our pupils. Mrs Roberts' visit sparked thoughtful discussions about resilience, creativity and the importance of avoiding waste, lessons that will stay with the children long after the workshop ended.

We are incredibly grateful to Mrs Roberts for sharing her remarkable experiences and providing such an inspiring learning opportunity for our Year 5 pupils.