Year 9 Students Step Back in Time with Immersive WW1 Trench Experience

Date:  Tuesday 10th March 2026

Where: Kent County Showground, Maidstone

On Tuesday 10th March, a group of Year 9 students from RHA travelled to the Kent County Showground for an immersive history trip designed to support their in-school study of the First World War.

The visit was hosted by the Centre for Experimental Archaeology, which is based at the site and has constructed an exact replica of a section of a World War One trench built along the Belgian sector of the Western Front. The reconstruction provided students with a rare opportunity to step into the past and experience first-hand the conditions faced by soldiers during the conflict.

During the morning, students attended engaging presentations delivered by leading World War One historians Andy and Janice Robertshaw. They explored topics including the diet, equipment and uniform of the British “Tommy”, as well as the medical practices and developments that emerged throughout the war. Students were also able to handle genuine WW1 artefacts and even try on elements of the soldiers’ kit, bringing their learning vividly to life.

Following lunch, the group toured the reconstructed trench system where they gained a deeper understanding of trench design and daily life on the front line. Students were also given the chance to test a recreated light railway system similar to those used to transport supplies and equipment to the trenches during the war.

Experiences like this play an important role in helping young people connect with the past in a meaningful way. By stepping into a realistic reconstruction and interacting with historical artefacts, students gain a deeper appreciation of the hardships and sacrifices endured by those who fought in the Great War. Remembering these events is vital, not only to honour the millions of lives affected by the conflict, but also to help future generations understand the consequences of war and the importance of learning from history so that such tragedies are never forgotten.

The trip proved to be a memorable and valuable learning experience. Although students returned home tired and muddy after the coach journey, they brought back a deeper appreciation of the realities faced by soldiers during the Great War.

Reflecting on the visit, Andy and Janice Robertshaw said:“The pupils from RHA were fantastic. We have never seen a group have as much fun and it was refreshing to see pupils learning through play, which is something that we rarely see. They are welcome back anytime.”

The school would like to thank Andy and Janice for hosting such an engaging and informative day, which provided students with a powerful and unforgettable insight into an important period of history.