Home Front Bus is primarily aimed at Key Stage 2 pupils where it enhances learning about the popular topic ‘Britain since the 1930’s’. A visit can also support work in areas such as Citizenship, Transport, RE, Literacy and Drama. As the pupils move through the bus, they learn about different aspects of ‘Life on the Home Front’..
In the Living Room, children learn about the precautions everybody had to make during the war and the effects of living with constant fear. We talk about domestic life, evacuation and the upheaval caused by the disintegration of families.
In the Shop the focus shifts to food rationing, the need to grow your own vegetables and the importance of community spirit.
On the upper deck we face the realities of bombing raids in the Bombed out Street and learn about the role of ARP Wardens.
At the sound of the air raid siren, we retreat into the Air Raid Shelter where we listen to the bombs falling outside and wonder whether our house will be hit. We hear first hand accounts of children who experienced the blitz.
The Outside of the bus forms a fifth set where there is still much to learn about evacuation, transport, blackout, the black market and propaganda.
There are significant advantages when Home Front Bus travels to your school rather than your school to a museum:
- Maximum time focussed on learning rather than travelling and stewarding
- An exciting and memorable experience for your class, year group, or even the entire school
- Value for money
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Whether you have a single class, year group or an entire school; whether you wish to teach yourself or require a team of re-enactors to accompany the bus, we aim to have a booking option to suit your size and budget.
All the team who accompany the bus dress in period costume, some of whom (subject to availability) will be those who experienced WW2 as a child and are able to describe their personal experiences.
Home Front Bus can either visit your school or your school can visit us at either the Battle of Britain Memorial, Capel-le-Ferne Battle of Britain Memorial or Dover Transport Museum Dover Transport Museam. The option of visiting us is particularly suited to smaller groups.
We also carry a selection of related gifts, souvenirs and publications for sale at pocket money prices.
Alternative Presentations
Faith in WW2
Home Front Bus has formed partnerships with a number of Christian Schools Teams in Kent and East London, which can be booked in conjunction with the bus. If you choose this option you will simply pay for the bus whilst the accompanying team will be sponsored by their governing bodies. Their presentation will place greater emphasis upon the role of faith during WW2, particularly prayer and the Bible.
The History of Buses
Learn about the history of buses from the original horse drawn examples right through to the latest ‘Borismaster’. We do stop and place particular emphasis on the role of buses during WW2.
"We were very impressed - we'd loved the Home Front and weren't sure you could enthrall them as much with London Transport but they were so enthusiastic about it all you obviously succeeded! Thank you." |
Darrick Wood School, Orpington |
Please complete our Online Enquiry Form to receive an accurate quotation of costs. Alternatively Contact Us to discuss the details of a visit to your school.
“Having completed so many year 6 trips about WW2 I can hand on heart say that this has been the most enjoyable and informative by far. So much information in such a short space of time. Characters were very knowledgeable and friendly. History brought to life!” |
Boughton-under-Blean Primary School |
“I would like to take this opportunity of thanking you and your colleagues for the very interesting day. The pupils really enjoyed the experience and were talking about it afterwards. They showed that they had listened and taken in a great deal of what was said and many continued to ask questions about different aspects of the talks.” |
Harbour School, Dover |
"Thank you so much for a great experience. The children and staff enjoyed each section of the bus very much. I know we have all learnt a great deal through the visit of the World War 2 bus. It was very beneficial to the children's learning to have a grasp of the reality of the war. We will certainly recommend you." |
Manor Oak Primary School, St Mary’s Cray |
"It was a really super way to learn about life during the Second World War." |
Leesons Primary School, St. Mary’s Cray |
"What a fantastic resource and a fabulous learning experience! The children (&staff) have had the opportunity to experience a little bit of life in the 1940’s today and we’ve learnt a lot." |
Ryarsh Primary School |
"What a lovely day! Every single child in year 5 & 6 had a wonderful time. Thank you so much for making this happen." |
Hythe Bay primary School |
"The children have had the most wonderful day, such wonderful input and friendly staff. They have all learnt so much and the bus has really helped to bring history to life. Thank you so much." |
Churchill Primary School, Westerham |
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