World War Two
1939–1945 — A global conflict that reshaped the modern world
The Second World War
The Second World War was the deadliest conflict in human history, involving over 30 countries and resulting in an estimated 70–85 million deaths. It began with Germany's invasion of Poland in September 1939 and ended with the surrender of Japan in August 1945.
For Northern Ireland, the war brought the Belfast Blitz of 1941, industrial mobilisation, and the arrival of American troops. The conflict touched every family — through evacuation, rationing, loss, and the slow news of loved ones overseas.
Key moments of the war
1939–1940 — War declared
September 1939
Germany invades Poland. Britain and France declare war. The 'Phoney War' gives way to the Fall of France and the evacuation of Dunkirk. The Battle of Britain begins as the RAF fights the Luftwaffe for control of the skies.
1941–1943 — Global war
1941–1943
Germany invades the Soviet Union. Japan attacks Pearl Harbor, bringing the USA into the war. The Holocaust intensifies. The tide begins to turn at Stalingrad and El Alamein. Belfast suffers devastating bombing raids in April and May 1941.
1944–1945 — Victory
1944–1945
D-Day landings in Normandy on 6 June 1944. Allied forces push into Germany. Hitler dies in his bunker and Germany surrenders on 8 May 1945 (VE Day). Japan surrenders in August following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
What we explore
Talks can be tailored to age requirement, with the KS2 Schools Home Guard workshop a favourite.
The Belfast Blitz
In April and May 1941, German bombers devastated Belfast, killing over 1,000 people — the worst bombing outside London. Children can explore why Belfast was targeted, what it was like to live through the raids, and how the city responded.
Air raid drills
What does the air raid siren sound like? How do we know when it's safe to come back out? Pupils can practice their drills and learn how to safely take cover, and what the all clear sounds like!
Basic training
All good soldiers must have basic drill! Pupils will learn basic foot drill such as how to come to attention, turn and salute their commanding officer. Pupils will also have the opportunity to throw a genuine deactivated grenade, just as troops would have done during the War.
Dig for Victory
Learn what types of food were rationed, and how much was given as part of it. We'll also examine why people were told to "Dig for Victory" and why rationing was so important.
Evacuees
Many children were evacuated from the larger towns and cities where there was a high risk of air raids. Pupils can examine what kind of things an evacuee might take with them as they move to the countryside.
Weapons and equipment
How heavy was the equipment carried by soldiers? How big was an anti aircraft shell? Examine a wide range of genuine deactivated weaponry, equipment and ordnance used by both the Allies and Axis during the War.
Artefacts we can show you
Holding History has an extensive collection of original WWII artefacts available for school visits and educational talks. From uniforms to ration books, these objects connect children directly to the people who lived through the war.
Uniforms and helmets
Original and replica British and German uniforms, helmets, and personal kit from the WWII period
Weapons and ordnance
Deactivated WWII weapons, shell casings, and inert ordnance from the War
Home front items
Ration books, gas masks, and wartime propaganda posters
Personal effects
Letters, photographs, and personal items belonging to soldiers and civilians of the period
Book a school talk
Bring the Second World War to life in your classroom. Get in touch to discuss a visit, artefact loan, or a tailored talk for your year group.