We made a concious decision not to visit schools in January and February this year as our experiences last year were cold, wet and miserable for bus and team alike. However we compromised and visited Whitstable Junior School in February as it was a return to our very first school, three years ago.
The bus spent some time in the workshop prior to a busy March schedule. However no sooner had it left then it was waylaid by a series of mechanical issues. A puncture was easy to deal with, but the starter motor misbehaved and a series of fuel leaks meant that a three school trip to London had to be postponed for a few weeks.
Following a retrurn to the excellent and hospitable Hythe Bay School we undertook a couple of visits to Secondary Schools. With changes in the curriculum looming it is time to adapt and expand our operations. Our approach in Secondary Schools is very different and we were grateful for a two day visit to Homewood School, Tenterden followed by a day at Hartsdown Academey Margate. The staff at both schools were very encouraging and left the following glowing feedback:
"I just wanted to say a big thank you to you both for working so hard during the two days you were at Homewood. All the students I have talked to were extremely positive about their experience and they particularly enjoyed their time in the air raid shelter despite some of them saying that they were scared. I think that can only do them good and I am sure that this will help no end with their topic this term on WW2 and the Home Front. For us the days worked really well in the main and although there were a large number of students to see I think they all benefited".
Phil, Homewood School
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your team for bringing the Home Front Bus to Hartsdown Academy. Your visit was popular with and, welcomed by staff and students alike.
Our students were enthralled, exploring the bus and finding out more about the history that you delivered to our doorstep.
The visit formed part of our Literacy Festival which this year has a theme of war and peace, focussing on conflicts across the decades and their resolution.
The Home front Bus is a fantastic way for students to enhance their learning. The detail is fabulous right down to the ration books and the flying duck ornaments on the wall in the front room. It really is history brought to life.
Your team’s knowledge and enthusiasm kept the students engaged during their time on the bus, I have been asked on repeat occasions “When will the bus be back?”
Administration and communication prior to your visit were clear, timings on the day were punctual, and I felt all considerations had been made and catered for regarding our safety and wellbeing.
I would be pleased to recommend the service you provided, and I look forward to arranging similar visits from you in the future."
Steve Bradshaw, Hartsdown Academy.
There was another welcome return to St Stephen's School Cnaterbury before the bus finally headed to wards London for the three schools postponed from earlier in the month. These were In Snaresbrook, Grays and Bow. It was great to have Neil Newman from Grasmere Photo Solutions with us to capture some great images:
Next stop for the bus is The Naval Firepower Museum, Gosport.
