Ridgeway School to represent UK in Somme education programme

Ridgeway School chosen to represent the UK in Battle of the Somme education programme

Ridgeway School has been selected to represent the UK in a special education programme to mark the centenary of the Battle of the Somme.

As living memory of what was one of the deadliest battles of the First World War fades, the programme – designed by the British Council - aims to raise awareness of the significance of World War One and the importance of UK-France relations in continuing peace and stability in Europe today.

Ridgeway School will forge partnerships with schools in the Somme region in France to allow pupils from both countries to discuss their shared history, build friendships and to commemorate those who lost their lives in the Battle of the Somme, 100 years on. The highlight of the programme will be a face to face workshop for all of the schools involved in July 2016.

Principal Lisa Boorman said, “I am so proud of the teachers here at Ridgeway who had the vision to put our school forward for this prestigious event and then worked so hard to secure our selection. It is going to be an amazing learning experience for both staff and students and they will be able to bring back and share their new knowledge with other pupils and the rest of the community. Part of our vision here at Ridgeway is to work collaboratively with others and I am also looking forward to forging a long lasting relationship with our partner school in France that will support future students for years to come.”

Julia Handelman-Smith at the British Council, commented: “The Battle of the Somme is one of the most tragic battles of the First World War, in which more than one million men were lost. By engaging young people with their shared history, they can build understanding, skills and friendships for the future. These are essential elements for a peaceful and prosperous Europe.”

The programme is financed by the Department of Media and Sport and delivered in partnership with the French Académie of Amiens and the Mission for the Centenary of the First World War. The British Council has also created a special education pack for schools to commemorate the Battle of the Somme. The pack contains resources to help students develop a deeper knowledge and understanding of the conflict. It covers topics including experiences of the Somme from around the Commonwealth, Pals Battalions, conscription, recruitment and remembrance today.