Year 9 Meet a WW2 Veteran
On Thursday 4th June 2009 the History Department provided the opportunity for Year 9 and 10 History students to meet a World War Two veteran. Sadly, such opportunities are becoming rare for today’s generation of teenagers.
Hugh and Betty Bland travelled to Lord Lawson from Scarborough to deliver workshops to our Year 9 students about their experiences during World War Two.
Hugh Bland fought in the RAF and also trained with the United States Air Force. One of his roles during the Second World War was to fly over the Atlantic Ocean defending merchant/goods ships bring crucial supplies to the UK. Mr Bland also spent some time before the outbreak of WWII in Nazi Germany. He shared with our students his experiences and memories of his time there soon after Adolf Hitler had become Führer.
Betty Bland added a different dimension to the workshops, and particular engaged and enthused the female students. Betty shared her experiences of life on the Home Front during WWII, such as rationing, the role of women and the arrival of US troops to Britain.
Mr Bland brought several personal belongings with him from his time in the RAF for students to engage with. These included photographs, medals and his gold flying wings which he received upon the successful completion of his training with the United States Air Force. In addition to these items, Mr and Mrs Bland also brought with them examples of weekly rations. Many students could not believe that people used to survive on so little. It was a joy to see so many students asking questions, taking part in interactive activities and actively wanting to know more.
Mr and Mrs Bland have visited Lord Lawson of Beamish School for the last 3 years and we are the only school they choose to visit. Once again, Mr and Mrs Bland commented upon the excellent behaviour and good manners of our students. They were a credit to themselves and great ambassadors for the school.
I am sure everyone involved would agree that it was a fantastic day and an enriching experience. We are already looking forward to next year’s visit.
Mr Massey
