Year 11 History

Year 11 History Excursion to The Shrine and State Library

Year 11 History students suffered through a cold foggy 8am start at Melton Station on May 14th, to trudge into Melbourne’s CBD. Our trip was to see and speak to war veterans from The Shrine of Remembrance and to gain cross curricula research skills at the State Library. Our train was cancelled so it took a bus, a train and a tram (with a brisk walk) to reach our destination but the students were in good spirits upon arrival and looking forward to learning.

Clive, a peace corp. Vet greeted us, showed us around, explaining to the students the primary source artefacts they were able to hold including helmets, clothing, invasion currency, and landmine tents. Clive then walked us around the Shrine and students were moved by the silence at 11am when we paused to reflect on our fallen soldiers in the Crypt. We wandered down to the eternal flame and discussed the memorial before students placed poppies in the wall of remembrance.

As the fog lifted over the citys cape we walked back down to the tram to travel to the State Library. Students were spilt into groups and taken on a tour of the library exploring the historical aspects of the library and its interesting stories as well as an interactive computer session. The classes were given hands on experience in navigating the online resources and data bases before signing up for future free use of the information.

Before long we were back train hopping to get home to Melton arriving as the fog was settling back in for the evening.

A fantastic experience for all that came along.