GCSE History Comes Alive on London Trip for Pool Students

Year 11 history students from Pool Academy, part of Athena Learning Trust, spent three days in London linking classroom learning to real historical sites as they prepare for their GCSE exams.

From textbooks to real places

The trip focused on key topics from the history curriculum, giving students the chance to see locations connected to what they have been studying. Visits included the Imperial War Museum, the Tower of London, the London Dungeon, and The Clink Museum, a recreation of a medieval prison on the site of the original.

Exploring crime and punishment

To support their studies of crime and punishment, students also explored Whitechapel, visiting sites linked to the Jack the Ripper murders and walking through streets and alleyways that played a role in this period of history.

A taste of London culture

Alongside the educational visits, students spent time in Leicester Square and Covent Garden, taking in some of the capital’s well known cultural landmarks.

The visit brought to life key elements of Pool Academy’s history curriculum, which encourages students to explore local, British and world history while developing curiosity, critical thinking and a strong understanding of the past.

Mr Nick Ward, Principal at Pool Academy, said:
“Trips like this help students connect what they are learning in the classroom with the real world. It was a fantastic experience for year 11 and a credit to both the students and staff involved.”