This exhibition guide is designed to help you get to know the exhibition, where best to look to discover stories that relate to your learning goals. We have identified historical examples that will ground your students learning in the context of the long story of migration to and from Britain. We have highlighted the stories most suitable for primary students and explained how to make the most of your time with us.
It can be a struggle to answer the inevitable question: ‘Where are you from?’ when you’re not quite sure. A young woman of mixed heritage searches for an answer by looking back over three generations of her family. Documents, family stories and of course the British staple of tea and biscuits help her figure out a way to reply.
A personal look at questions of identity, at a time where migration, political isolation and reclaiming history are hot topics. Is it important to look to your own past in order to better respond to wider issues present today?
Talking about race, although hard, is necessary. This resource has been created by the Smithsonian for educators to help with opening a discussion about race. It looks at the historical foundations of race, being anti-racist and building a community, as well as providing the tools and guidance to explore this topic whether you are teaching infants, adults, or any age in between. There’s no quick or foolproof way to talk about the complexities of race. But, it’s a conversation we all need to have, no matter your race, background, education or experience. What and how the history of race in America is presented is an opportunity to engage in thoughtful, respectful, and productive conversations.
Child Migrant Stories teaching resources have been developed with and for educators for use in classrooms, heritage sites and other informal learning spaces across the UK. They draw on the personal experiences of people who migrated to Britain from around the world from 1930 to present day. Their stories are of loss and reunion but of resilience too, often in the face of war, poverty and discrimination. They are poignant, powerful and sometimes very funny.
