The Windrush Generation

Explore the Windrush Generation with KS2 History Lessons

Discover the remarkable story of the Windrush generation with this ready-to-teach Windrush KS2 History scheme of work for Years 3 and 4. Across five engaging lessons, children will explore the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush in Britain in 1948, investigate why people migrated from the Caribbean and other Commonwealth countries, and discover the lasting contributions the Windrush generation has made to British society and culture.

Beginning with the historic voyage of HMT Empire Windrush, children will learn why Britain needed workers following the Second World War and explore the hopes and expectations of those who travelled to start new lives. They'll discover who the Windrush generation were, investigate the experiences of individual migrants, including Sam Beaver King, and develop their historical understanding through research, discussion and writing in role.

As the scheme progresses, children will explore the challenges faced by the Windrush generation, including racism, discrimination and the Windrush scandal of 2018. They'll investigate the contributions of Commonwealth migrants to British life, consider different perspectives and reflect on how migration has helped shape modern Britain. Finally, they'll discover the significance of Windrush Day and plan their own celebration to recognise the achievements and legacy of the Windrush generation.

Ideal for teachers looking for Windrush planning for KS2, this complete History scheme provides detailed lesson plans, teaching slides, differentiated activities and assessment opportunities. It offers a thoughtful and accessible way to explore an important chapter of modern British history while developing children's historical enquiry skills and understanding of migration, identity and cultural change.

What children will learn

• understand the historical significance of HMT Empire Windrush and its arrival in Britain on 22 June 1948

• explore why people migrated from the Caribbean and other Commonwealth countries to Britain after the Second World War

• explain who the Windrush generation were and investigate the experiences of people who settled in Britain between 1948 and 1971

• research significant individuals from the Windrush generation, including Sam Beaver King

• investigate the challenges faced by Commonwealth migrants, including racism, discrimination and the Windrush scandal

• explore the contributions of the Windrush generation to British society, employment and culture

• consider different perspectives and develop historical enquiry skills through research, discussion and interpreting evidence

• understand why Windrush Day is celebrated and explore ways to recognise the achievements and legacy of the Windrush generation

What's included

This complete five-lesson Windrush KS2 History scheme of work includes everything you need to plan, teach and assess your unit:

• 5 detailed lesson plans with clear learning objectives, teaching guidance and engaging activities

• Ready-to-teach presentation slides to introduce historical knowledge and guide classroom discussions

• Differentiated worksheets and activities to support adaptive teaching

• Printable teaching resources, including information sheets, historical source materials, research activities, role-play cards and Windrush Day celebration templates

• A knowledge organiser featuring key facts, historical vocabulary, a timeline and enquiry questions

• Assessment opportunities, including an assessment grid to help track children's understanding and historical enquiry skills

All resources are supplied as downloadable PDFs, ready to use in your Year 3 or Year 4 classroom.