Cumbria‘s Museum of Military Life tells the story of Cumbria’s County Infantry Regiments and its soldiers, past and present. We are passionate about making history accessible for all, and our Learning team have experience teaching topics to pupils with a wide range of abilities and needs.
What is on offer?
We offer a range of visit types for both Primary and Secondary groups that utilise objects from the Museum’s diverse collection whilst making links to the National Curriculum.
Our workshops aim to develop pupils’ cultural capital and chronological understanding through hands-on experiences (such as object handling) supported by discussion-based activities.
Schools are welcome to visit the Museum galleries as part of a self-guided visit, free of charge. You’ll have access to a range of displays, interactives (such as a morse code machine) and even a reconstructed trench.
Workshops:
All workshops are approximately 90 minutes and include group discussions, handling objects, historic photographics and local area links to Cumbria. We also provide a bespoke gallery trail for each workshop.
The First World War
(KS1, KS2 & KS3)
Learn all about the soldier’s experience of the First World War using real artefacts. Try on uniforms, examine documents and handle weapons used in ‘the Great War.’
Key themes:
- Recruitment
- Kit, equipment & weaponry
- Trench life
- Commemoration
The Second World War
(KS1, KS2 & KS3)
Learn all about the soldier’s experience of the Second World War and the impact it had on them and their families back home. Try on uniforms, examine documents and handle weapons used.
Key themes:
- The Home Front (rationing, evacuation, security and air raids)
- Kit, equipment & weaponry
- Propaganda
- Women’s wartime roles
Poppies and Remembrance
(KS1 & KS2)
What is Remembrance? Discover how the poppy is used as a symbol through storytelling and object handling.
Key themes:
- Storytelling
- The history of Remembrance
- The evolution of the poppy
- Commemoration
Please note, these workshops have been designed to take place within the Museum. There are also opportunities to extend workshops for cross-curricular learning, depending on the needs of your class.
Think we may be able to support your teaching but can’t find what you’re looking for? Please email rachel.brodie@cmoml.org to discuss your requirements.
FAQs –
How much do you charge?
Onsite (at the Museum): £2.50 per pupil per workshop
Outreach (in School): £65 half-day | £130 full-day (plus travel costs)
Can I visit the Museum before my school trip?
Teachers are welcome for a free familiarisation visit prior to making a school booking, just make the member of staff at the front desk aware of this when you arrive. If you would like to see the Learning room or speak with a member of the Learning team, please email rachel.brodie@cmoml.org to arrange a suitable time.
Where do the workshops take place?
Workshops at the Museum are usually provided in our Learning room on the first floor with a visit to the Galleries on the ground floor.
Who delivers the workshops?
Jules Wooding:
Jules studied BA (Hons) History before undertaking a postgraduate diploma in Heritage Studies. She worked in various education-based roles across the arts, culture and heritage sector. Jules initially started as a volunteer at Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life in 2012 before becoming the Learning and Access Officer in 2014 until 2020 where she managed the education programme for schools, colleges, universities and communities. She was also a member of the Historical Association’s Primary Committee from 2012 to 2018. As part of her current role as Museum Manager, she oversees the Museum’s Learning and Access programme.
Rachel Brodie:
Rachel is a qualified teacher, having studied BA (Hons) Primary Education with specialisms in English and History. Upon graduation, she completed a traineeship in Museum Education with the Wordsworth Trust. She began working at Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life in May 2023, where she is responsible for supporting the development and delivery of the Museum's learning offer and developing and assisting with Museum events.
How many pupils can we bring?
Our Learning room can comfortably accommodate up to 50 pupils at one time.
Is there somewhere we can eat lunch?
We have a lunch space which can be reserved as part of your booking, included in the cost of your visit. This facility is also available if you are visiting for a self-guided visit, dependent on availability.
Do you offer outreach?
Our workshops have been designed to take place in the Museum. For enquiries relating to outreach, please email rachel.brodie@cmoml.org
Is there parking?
There is no onsite parking but coach/minibus parking is available close by on Castle car park on the west wide of the Castle. There is a coach drop-off point at Tullie (opposite the Castle) and access to the Castle is via the underpass/crossing at the same location. Disabled parking is available in the Castle for cars and small minibuses only.
What about access?
Due to the nature of the building, there is limited disabled access. For more information regarding accessibility, please email rachel.brodie@cmoml.org.
What about health and safety?
Once we have confirmed your booking, you will receive a copy of our risk assessment. Please read this carefully and share information with the other adults coming with you. Should you have any other queries relating to H&S, please email rachel.brodie@cmoml.org.
Do you offer CPD sessions for school staff?
We host free CPD sessions at the Museum for school staff, with opportunities to:
- Tour the facilities and visit the galleries
- Get up close with our handling collection
- Find out more about our workshops
- Discuss your requirements with our Learning team (over some biscuits and a brew!)
If you would like to receive information about our next CPD session, please send your email to rachel.brodie@cmoml.org to be added to our mailing list.
