Reception Class pupils at St Francis Primary School in Ventnor welcomed a special visitor ahead of Remembrance Day to learn more about military life, veterans and the importance of remembrance.
The visit gave young children the chance to explore the many roles of the military, learning that, above all, the main purpose of the armed forces is to help others.
Pupils discovered interesting facts about the Army, Navy and RAF, with the opportunity to try on various military hats and even a heavy combat vest. When curious minds asked about the large metal plates at the front and back, they connected it to their learning from last term – identifying that the plates protect vital areas, including the heart.
The children were also introduced to special military vehicles, including a unique aircraft that can operate both as a plane and a helicopter, as well as a pilotless drone controlled remotely with advanced technology.
The RAF visitor brought a collection of fascinating artefacts for the children to explore. Among them was a green field telephone once used during missions, now replaced by modern communication systems. One of these telephones was kindly donated to the class for imaginative play, along with a selection of dress-up hats.
Mess tins were also examined as part of the session, helping children understand how soldiers eat, wash and brush their teeth while away from home.
On Remembrance Day itself, the class took part in the national 2-minute silence and read several storybooks about people and animals who made sacrifices to help others. They also looked through old photographs and compared vintage cameras to today’s technology, sparking conversations about how things have changed over time.
The visit and related activities gave pupils a thoughtful and age-appropriate understanding of remembrance, sacrifice, and the role of the armed forces.
About time our kids are taught, what as a Great country and patriotic women and men did for the whole world.