The Young Historian Project

Landing ships putting cargo ashore on Omaha Beach, at low tide during the first days of the operation, mid-June, 1944. Author: US Government.

This initiative has been celebrating the achievements of young historians in schools for over twenty years. It is largely funded by the Historical Association and the Spirit of Normandy Trust. It has an annual award scheme and also funds some special events, such as the annual Young Historian Day at Tutbury Castle in Staffordshire. The Young Historian Project seeks to encourage young people to be historians and to encourage their teachers in this great endeavour.

The Award categories in 2009 will be:

Primary: Spirit of Normandy Trust [for work on World War Two]; Local History; Citizenship; Indus Valley Civilisation; Erasmus Darwin/Samuel Johnson; Green Man cross-curricular themes; School History Magazine.

Key Stage 3: Spirit of Normandy Trust [for work on World War Two]; Local History; World War One; Erasmus Darwin/Samuel Johnson; Green Man cross-curricular themes; School History Magazine.

GCSE: Spirit of Normandy Trust [for work on World War Two]; Local History; World War One; Modern Studies [post-1918]; School History Magazine.

Post-16: Spirit of Normandy Trust [for work on World War Two]; Local History; School History Magazine.

The purpose of these Awards is to encourage classroom History, and we wish to celebrate the quality of what is produced in your classrooms and not create extra work for teachers.

Extra Prize for Animated movies or Creative video for all Primary Topics, has been donated by TAG Learning
A Digital Blue Camera; its software enables children to create stop-go animation movies. Entries can be animations, or ‘dedicated' films scripted by children, which might feature models, puppets, and artwork, and should demonstrate what children have learnt from their enquiries!

A full list of 2008 winner plus examples of their work are attached below!

Further Enquiries are most welcome and can be made to the Project Director, Dr Trevor James, at the Birmingham and Midland Institute, 9 Margaret Street, Birmingham B3 3BS [sae please] or phone to discuss the details on 01543-301097.

The closing date for entries will be 24 July 2009.