Khaki on Campaign

On Friday 25th February, TBSHS was lucky enough to host Richard ‘Dickie’ Knight, a renowned British military specialist, expert on twentieth century warfare and – perhaps most excitingly – one of our very own alumni! Mr Knight has served as historical advisor on major motion pictures such as War Horse, Private Peaceful, and Journey’s End, as well as small-screen documentaries such as the BBC’s From D-Day to Berlin and When Hitler Invaded Britain. He also advised on the famous World War I-themed Sainsbury’s Christmas advert, which many parents may remember from 2014! Alongside his TV and film work, Mr Knight also regularly works with museums and schools all across the country, leads tours around the battlefields of Belgium and France, and hand-manufactures replica military uniforms and equipment (his work features heavily in films such as 1917).

Mr Knight gave two fascinating talks to our historians in Years 8 and 9, complemented by his enormous collection of uniforms, artefacts and equipment, which the boys were only too keen to try on. To begin with, he spoke to Year 8 historians about the First World War, providing a vivid introduction to a topic the year group will shortly be studying in their History lessons. Next, he presented to Y9 historians: this time about the changing nature of warfare from the end of the nineteenth century up to 1945, which complemented the boys’ recent study of the Second World War perfectly.

Our students were hugely engaged across both talks, relishing the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about these captivating periods of military history. Many lucky volunteers were also able to dress up in full replica gear – from British officers of the 1940s, to German paratroopers, to a classic British ‘redcoat’ of the Boer War or average British ‘Tommy’ of WWI.

Miss E Quinlan, Subject Leader for History, said: “Richard has been visiting TBSHS for many years now, and each time, without fail, he leaves the room buzzing with excitement. Whilst we have unfortunately had to miss out on his visits for the past few years due to the national situation, it was brilliant to have him back! We hope our historians have been inspired by his incredible expertise and riveting presenting style, and – hopefully – will return to their study of our History curriculum with a renewed passion and engagement. We are very lucky to be able to enjoy his first rate knowledge, and look forward to welcoming him back again for many more times to come!”

The History Department would also like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks to the PTFA, who kindly agreed to fund Mr Knight’s visit, allowing us to provide such a fantastic experience at no cost to our students.