Imperial War Museum London

We explore the human impact of conflict through the eyes of the people who lived it. A visit to IWM (Imperial War Museum) London encourages active exploration of the causes and consequences of war. Through our learning sessions and world class collection, we help students to understand the impact of war and conflict on people’s lives and the variety of these experiences.

Self-guided world war visits can make the most of our meet and greet offer where you are introduced to the museum through one of our objects. Groups with Learning Sessions can create their own mini-documentaries and let their student’s explore what is too important to keep in the museum or they can meet veterans and eyewitnesses to conflict.

A visit to IWM London supports student’s studies within History, English, Religious Studies and Citizenship subjects.

Testimonials:

“The session helped the pupils to think analytically and not just about history but about diversity, British values and life learning. They are now more aware of what is going on in the world and their place in it.” – Key Stage 2 Teacher booking a We Were There session.

“An incredible way for students to learn. The opportunity to explore, be creative, make choices, voice their thoughts and do so with the rigidness of having to know an examiners mark scheme. Teachers crave being able to support students in learning this way. A wonderful experience!” – Key Stage 3 Teacher, Documentary Challenge session.

“A thoroughly 21st century learning event which genuinely helps to develop historical and deeper understanding of the past.” – Key Stage 3 Teacher.

Our Bookings Team can tailor your visit to your needs. You can visit us on a self-guided option where you can make use of our online resources and free gallery guides. Or you can book a Learning Session to supplement your visit. Choose what session is right for your class as we have options for upper Key Stage 2 – Key Stage 4 studying History, English, Religious Studies or Citizenship.

We can accommodate groups of any size, although we will ask you to stagger your arrival times by groups of 60. Learning Sessions can accommodate groups of 30 at a time.

We have a number of free online resources for KS2-KS3 you can access for free on our website at any time. These include images, articles and power points.

We also have free gallery guides to assist you in your First and Second World War studies at the museum. These can be downloaded from our website in advance or we can provide you with copies on the day.

You are welcome to take photos and video for personal, non-commercial use. Please avoid the use of flash and tripods, and taking photos or filming people without permission. Please observe signage indicating where photography and filming is not permitted.

Teachers are advised to carry out a preliminary visit in advance of their school trip in order to conduct their own risk assessment. Responsibility for pupils on school visits remains with the teachers at all times.

Everyday hazards such as slipping, tripping or falling on stairs, trapping fingers in doors and cuts and bruises are inherent in all environments. The following site specific factors should be considered in relation to the individual needs of each group member.

Our full Risk Identification guide can be found here: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london/groups/risk-identification

Booking Contact: LearningBookings@iwm.org.uk

Self-guided visits are free but booking is essential.

Learning Sessions range from £75-125 depending on what you book.

N/A although we would recommend usual school attire and to travel light as large bags are not permitted in the galleries.

Our front of house Security Team can assist you on your visit. Please find the nearest member of staff and they will be able to assist you.

• Shop (pre-booked goodie bags are available)
• Toilets
• Lunch room (booing is essential)

Step-free access to the museum is via the West Entrance. If you’re looking at the front of the museum, the West Entrance is located on the right hand side of the building, just past the Café entrance.

Follow this link for our full access guide: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london/accessibility

Monday – Friday 10am-6pm every day with the exception of 24-26 December.

Testimonials:

“The session helped the pupils to think analytically and not just about history but about diversity, British values and life learning. They are now more aware of what is going on in the world and their place in it.” – Key Stage 2 Teacher booking a We Were There session

“An incredible way for students to learn. The opportunity to explore, be creative, make choices, voice their thoughts and do so with the rigidness of having to know an examiners mark scheme. Teachers crave being able to support students in learning this way. A wonderful experience!” – Key Stage 3 Teacher, Documentary Challenge session

“A thoroughly 21st century learning event which genuinely helps to develop historical and deeper understanding of the past.” – Key Stage 3 Teacher

Take a look at our school bookings Terms and Conditions: https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-london/groups/booking