Medics, Vets & Padres-Ypres & The Somme Battlefields School Trips

Battlefield and History Tours

Students should consider the "Medics, Vets & Padres – Ypres & The Somme Battlefields" tour with Battlefield and History Tours for an immersive educational experience that brings World War I history to life. This unique tour delves into the crucial roles of medical personnel, veterinary services, and spiritual leaders during the Great War. By tracing the journey of wounded soldiers—from the Regimental Aid Post to Advanced Dressing Stations and beyond—students will understand the complexities of wartime medicine and the efforts to save lives amid chaos. The tour also explores the establishment of the Veterinary Corps, highlighting how thousands of horses and mules were cared for and returned to duty. Additionally, it examines the challenging role of padres and clerics who provided spiritual support in the face of overwhelming adversity. Visits to significant sites like preserved trenches, memorials, and museums—including the Essex Farm Advanced Dressing Station where Colonel John McCrae wrote "In Flanders Fields"—offer a profound connection to history. This comprehensive journey not only educates but also fosters deep reflection on the human aspects of war, making it an invaluable learning experience for students.

school tours Medics, Vets & Padres-Ypres & The Somme Battlefields

Medics, Vets & Padres-Ypres & The Somme Battlefields school groups

Medics, Vets & Padres-Ypres & The Somme Battlefields photograph

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Tailor your trip

Example Itineraries

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Travel to Folkestone. Shorncliffe Military Cemetery and the Gotha Raids. Tunnel or ferry to Calais. Essex Farm ADS and Colonel John McCrae. Hostel Ypres (2 nights) Hill 60 preserved battlefield (time permitting).

Day 2: 0900 depart for Tubby Clayton and the Concert Party at TOC H. The flu epidemic, Nellie Spindler and the 1922 Pilgrimage at Lissenthoek. Captain Noel Chavasse VC and Bar at Brandhoek CCS. Sanctuary Wood Museum and trenches. (Lunch break) Tyne Cot CWGC cemetery. Private John Condon at Poelcapelle. Langemarck German cemetery. St Georges Memorial Church and Ypres. “The Last Post” at the Menin Gate.

Day 3: 0845 drive south for the battle of the Somme 1916. The Horse memorial at Chipilly. Lochnagar Crater and Sir Adrian Carton de Wiart. Auchonvillers Stretcher Bearers Post cellars and lunch. Newfoundland Memorial Park and visitor centre. The Reverend Theodore Bayley Hardy VC at Rossignol Wood. This tour will finish at Lutyens Memorial to the missing on Thiepval Ridge. Return to Calais.

Which Curriculum Subjects do we cater for?

History Click to expand

Our "Medics, Vets & Padres – Ypres & The Somme Battlefields" tour immerses students in the pivotal roles of medical personnel, veterinary services, and spiritual leaders during World War I. By exploring historic sites, preserved trenches, and cemeteries, we bring history to life, allowing students to trace the journey of wounded soldiers and understand the evolution of wartime medical practices.

We deliver the History curriculum through interactive activities and guided explorations of significant locations such as the Essex Farm Advanced Dressing Station, where Colonel John McCrae wrote "In Flanders Fields," and the Lochnagar Crater. Our expert guides facilitate workshops and discussions that encourage critical thinking about the moral and ethical challenges faced during the Great War. Students engage with primary sources, artifacts, and personal stories, providing a comprehensive understanding of the social and cultural impacts of World War I. This hands-on experience not only aligns with educational objectives but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the subject matter by connecting classroom learning with real-world historical contexts.

World War Click to expand

Immerse your students in World War I history with our "Medics, Vets & Padres – Ypres & The Somme Battlefields" tour. This engaging trip explores the roles of medical staff, veterinary services, and spiritual leaders during the Great War, through visits to significant sites, trenches, and memorials.

We deliver the World War I curriculum by providing a hands-on learning experience that brings historical events to life. Students trace the medical evacuation chain, understanding the journey from the battlefield to medical facilities, and the crucial efforts of the Royal Army Medical Corps. They learn about the Stretcher Bearers, Orderlies, Nurses, Doctors, and Surgeons who worked tirelessly amidst the chaos of war.

The tour also delves into the formation of the Veterinary Corps, highlighting how thousands of horses and mules were transported, treated, and returned to duty. Additionally, we explore the challenging role of Padres and Clerics who offered spiritual support during the conflict.

Through guided visits to key historical sites such as the Essex Farm Advanced Dressing Station—where Colonel John McCrae wrote "In Flanders Fields"—Hill 60 preserved battlefield, and the Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery, students witness firsthand the realities of trench warfare and the human cost of the war.

Interactive experiences include exploring preserved trenches at the Sanctuary Wood Museum, visiting the impressive Lochnagar Crater, and attending "The Last Post" ceremony at the Menin Gate. These activities are designed to engage students actively, fostering a deeper understanding of World War I's impact.

Our knowledgeable guides align their commentary with curriculum objectives, ensuring educational relevance. Accommodations are in secure, youth-friendly hostels equipped for school groups. We provide comprehensive risk assessments and safety information to support planning.

By immersing students in the historical landscape of Ypres and The Somme, we offer a profound educational experience that enriches their understanding of World War I, its challenges, and the enduring stories of those who served.

What size groups do we cater for?

Our programs are designed to accommodate groups starting from a minimum of 10 participants, without a set maximum limit on group size. This ensures flexibility and inclusivity for various group sizes, catering to the specific needs of each party. Specifically for primary and middle schools, we offer a complimentary spot for a teacher for every 10 student participants. This policy is part of our commitment to supporting educational institutions by making our programs accessible and beneficial for both students and educators alike. Our goal is to foster a conducive learning environment where teachers can accompany their students, ensuring educational objectives are met while providing support and supervision.

Access for visitors with disabilities?

At Battlefield & History Tours, our dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for all participants on our group excursions is steadfast. We believe in the importance of tailoring our tours to meet the diverse needs of our guests. As such, we strongly advocate for transparent communication from the very beginning of your inquiry. This enables us to understand any specific requirements you may have, ensuring a more accommodating and enriching experience.

Although we must acknowledge that, unfortunately, some destinations may not be fully accessible at this time, our commitment does not wane. We are devoted to offering guidance on suitable alternatives or devising innovative solutions whenever possible. Our goal is to ensure that every participant has the opportunity to engage fully with our tours, regardless of accessibility challenges.

Visitors with Special Educational Needs (SEN)?

Battlefield & History Tours takes great pride in its established history of orchestrating successful and enriching tours for numerous groups with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Our approach is deeply rooted in the principle of individualized attention, ensuring that the unique requirements of each participant are carefully considered and addressed. We are dedicated to creating experiences that are not only educational but also accessible, allowing every individual to engage fully and benefit from our tours. This commitment to inclusivity and personalized care is at the heart of our operations, as we strive to provide meaningful and memorable experiences for all our guests.

Anything else?

Every itinerary we design is the result of meticulous planning and customization, tailored specifically to align with your unique preferences and requirements. Our commitment to excellence ensures that each detail is thoughtfully considered, providing you with an experience that is not only seamless but also deeply resonant with your expectations. We take great care in ensuring that every aspect of your journey is curated to offer an enriching and personalized experience, reflecting our dedication to meeting and exceeding your needs.

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Who are Battlefield and History Tours?

Battlefield and History Tours is a specialist provider of educational tours focused on bringing pivotal moments of history to life for students and educational groups. With a deep commitment to immersive learning experiences, we craft detailed itineraries that explore significant events of the Great War, particularly in regions like Ypres and The Somme Battlefields. Our expertise lies in highlighting the roles of medics, veterinary services, and spiritual leaders during World War I. We collaborate closely with dedicated accommodations designed for youth groups, ensuring a comfortable and secure environment. Our partnerships with museums, preserved battlefields, and historical sites allow us to offer a comprehensive and engaging exploration of history, fostering a profound understanding and reflection among our participants.