This is part of the Remembering the Danensians project, as part of the HLF-funded Doncaster 1914-18 Project. Over the next six months, Doncaster 1914-18 will work with the school to create a leaflet, walking trail and exhibition based on these stories. Today was the first session with the group taking part in this project.
Here Sophia Lambert, 16 from Hall Cross Academy, Doncaster tells Museums + Heritage Advisor about her experience as curator and researcher for the day.
Why you think your role is important to the museum?
I think it is important to find out about history and explore the past as you need to know how the past shaped the future. The First World War was such a big event and has shaped how we live today. It’s important to make people aware of the First World War and the sacrifices that people made for us. By taking part in the project, myself and fellow students are helping to bring this alive, for young people like ourselves today.
I would like to see museums getting more involved in allowing visitors, especially young people to plan activities, like the Twitter Takeover
In what ways are you taking over – describe the activities you are involved in?
I made a photo diary throughout the day. I also carried out research using websites, like Ancestry and FindmyPast and newspapers which myself and other students from my school will use as part of a project to take place throughout this school year to produce a trail, leaflet and exhibition as part of the Doncaster 1914-18 project. In the morning, we had a hands-on experience, which allowed us to see what life would have been like in the trenches by making trenches using profiles of real people from our school.
What are the best things about taking over museums?
I have enjoyed it all but it is important that young people get chance to see what goes on behind the scenes and see how activities in museums can bring history alive. It’s great we can be more involved in museums.
What do you like about museums?
I like to be able to see real objects up-close and primary sources. It’s special to see real things from this time period.
What would you like to change or see more of in your local museums?
I would like to see museums getting more involved in allowing visitors, especially young people to plan activities, like the Twitter Takeover. I would like to see more activities especially for kids and young people.
Main Image
15-year-olds Kaci Ann, Luke and Nathan had a go at creating a First World War trench, they dressed up as nurses and soldiers. Photograph by Sophia Lambert
