Students researched the experiences of two boys, Franz Hermann and Rolf Metzger, who arrived in Twickenham from Germany via the Kindertransport, aged nine and ten, and attended Orleans Park Senior School. Students investigated the direct connections between the Kindertransport and their own school and community, as well as the response of the British government to the Holocaust as it unfolded.

Students developed a much deeper understanding of life in Europe during the war years and gained direct insight into the experience of children who demonstrated remarkable resilience in leaving their homes and adapting to life in a foreign country. Students learnt how personal historical accounts can offer varied perspectives and a more intimate connection with history.

A group of Year 9 and 10 students led this research project. They read the accounts written by Franz and Rolf, along with their school reports and other documents preserved and kindly shared with them by the boys’ families. The students used their research to create a detailed and fascinating presentation deck which brings together everything they have learnt.

Students shared their learning with all the other Year Nine pupils, as part of the Holocaust history curriculum. These students will also lead the Holocaust Remembrance assemblies in January and the school are now planning to build a memorial for the front of the school grounds to honour the incredible lives of Franz and Rolf.