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KS2 History: World War Two

BBC Teach > Primary Resources > History KS2

Using archive video and images from the Imperial War Museum, as well as first-person testimony from veterans and eye-witnesses, this series of short films offers a comprehensive overview of World War Two for primary schools.

These short films are suitable for teaching history at KS2 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and 2nd Level in Scotland.

They could also be incorporated into cross-curricular learning as they cover a variety of subjects including:

  • Design and Technology
  • Maths
  • Geography
  • English
  • Art
  • Physical Education

Created in partnership with Imperial War Museums.

World War Two - Teacher Guide
document

World War Two - Teacher Guide

Download this PDF teacher guide for useful historical context and information about the events of World War Two.

Britain declares war on Germany
video

Britain declares war on Germany

This short film offers an overview of the events that led to Britain declaring war on Germany in 1939.

Rationing in the UK
video

Rationing in the UK

This short film explains rationing in simple terms, offering a glimpse of a world that pupils may not be accustomed to.

Geography of World War Two
video

Geography of World War Two

This short film provides insight into the scope of the war and how many countries were involved.

How propaganda was used during World War Two
video

How propaganda was used during World War Two

This short film explains how people were persuaded to join the war effort, and the importance of motivational campaigns.

The Blitz
video

The Blitz

This short film offers a digestible insight into the blitz and how the British people responded.

The Battle of Britain and beyond
video

The Battle of Britain and beyond

This short film explains what the Battle of Britain was, who was involved and how radar was used throughout the battle.

Machines of the military
video

Machines of the military

This short film highlights the importance of technology in the war effort and the key roles that tanks, planes and ships played.

D-Day
video

D-Day

This short film explores the significance of D-Day as well as highlighting what took place that day.

Codebreaking during World War Two
video

Codebreaking during World War Two

This short film explains how cracking Nazi Germany's coded messages helped win World War Two.

VE Day
video

VE Day

This short film explains what VE Day and VJ Day were, and the events that led to the end of the war.

External learning-related websites: