Year 8
The topic question is: What are the causes and significant events of World War 2?
The lesson question focused on: How Teesside was affected by World War 2
Background
As part of the cable route excavations near to Bydales School, Sofia undertook extensive archaeological excavations to highlight any areas of importance before the cable routes were dug. These excavations found evidence of trenches. In World War 1 it was known that the area had an aerodrome and an army barracks. During WW1 the airfield was set up as a ‘finishing school’ for pilots to learn combat flying.
However following closer inspection it was identified that these trenches were from World War 2.They had been dug as training trenches in a zig-zag formation
The pupils were introduced to this through an in class session and powerpoint showing an historical map of the area.. Following that the pupils visited the site with the archaeologists from Durham University to learn more first hand and understand the fieldwork skills being deployed.
The site near the landfall is now a modern housing estate known as The Landings, with streets named after people and aircraft connected with World War II, despite the airfield not being used during that conflict.
Archaeologist Peter Carne said: “It is great that these offshore wind projects provided the opportunity to uncover the remains of WWI in the area, and we are really pleased that local children have been able to visit and see for themselves.”
Gemma Green, who accompanied the children to the site said: “What an opportunity to witness WW1 history on our doorstep! We usually associate trenches with Northern France and Belgium but this gave our students and staff the chance to uncover that soldiers practiced digging trenches here in Marske before heading to the Western Front. This really brought history to life”.
