Medicine through time: First World War focus

Explore artefacts and sources on the causes and treatment of injuries and illnesses on the Western Front during the First World War, and assess the impact of these innovations.

Using our extensive handling collection, learners can understand the impact of warfare on soldiers' welfare. In particular, learners will investigate and explore the following:

• Trench injuries and illnesses, including shell shock
• The casualty evacuation process
• The Thomas Splint and prosthetics
• The effects of gas
• Blood transfusions, X-rays and infection 
• Facial reconstruction and plastic surgery

This session is 60 minutes long and includes:

• Handling objects (including weaponry)
• Archival materials
• Historic images
• Group working and presentation
• Peer-to-peer learning

Curriculum areas:

• History