Pupils from Upton Juniors in Broadstairs have been delving into local history to uncover the impact of Ramsgate's life-saving wartime tunnels. The vast network of underground passageways once served as one of the largest civilian air raid shelters in the country, carved deep beneath the town and providing refuge for thousands of residents during bombing raids. Families often spent long periods underground in the subterranean refuge, which was equipped with lighting, bunks, toilets, and even a railway system to transport people to safety.
Hands-On History Learning
The visit was part of the school's 'Paths to Peace' project, focusing on World War Two and its impact on the UK and locally. Head of school Darci Arthur said: "This is a fascinating topic for our children to explore, with history right on our doorstep giving them the chance to experience first-hand the living conditions underground that families and children faced during terrifying bombing raids."
Guided Tour and Fascinating Facts
The pupils had a guided tour of the section of tunnels stretching out towards Boundary Park. They were intrigued to discover that the tunnels could shelter 60,000 people during a bombing raid, and that entrances were placed at strategic locations around the town, so no resident was more than five minutes away from shelter.
Stories and Artefacts
Volunteer guides kept the children entertained with stories of sheltering residents having to sing on the toilet to warn people not to pull back the flimsy curtains covering lavatory spaces cut into the tunnels. Following the tour, the group enjoyed studying the many Home Front artefacts in the tunnels' small museum area. Year 6 teacher Ayesha Watling commented: "I'm sure it will become a very memorable part of the pupils' learning this year."
