First World War Tommy's Recruit Training School

Experience the Training of a British Tommy – 1914–1918

An interactive historical experience for children and families.

About the Workshop

Step back into the First World War and discover what life was like for a British soldier learning the basic skills of military drill.

Under the instruction of a historically costumed First World War British soldier, participants will be introduced to the discipline, commands and movements that formed part of a recruit's military training.

Children will have the opportunity to handle safe, non-firing replica or purpose-made drill rifles and experience some of the basic movements and commands used by British soldiers during the Great War.

This is an engaging, educational and interactive activity designed to bring military history to life in an accessible and enjoyable way.

Daily Workshop Programme

Three workshops will run throughout the day, giving visitors several opportunities to participate.

  • Workshop 1: Morning session

  • Workshop 2: Early afternoon session

  • Workshop 3: Late afternoon session

Workshop duration: Approximately 15–20 minutes.

Maximum participants: 20 children per session.

Daily capacity: Up to 60 participants.

Workshop Content

Each session will include:

1. Meet the Tommy

  • Introduction to the British Army during the First World War.

  • Discover what a British soldier wore and carried.

  • Introduction to the importance of discipline and military training.

2. Introduction to Rifle Drill

  • Introduction to the equipment and its historical purpose.

  • Learning selected traditional drill commands.

  • Practising basic stationary drill movements under supervision.

  • Understanding how soldiers worked together as a unit.

3. The Soldier's Challenge

  • Participants put their newly learned skills into practice.

  • A short group drill exercise.

  • Working together, listening to commands and maintaining discipline.

4. A Final Parade

  • Participants finish with a short group demonstration of what they have learned.

  • A chance to experience what it was like to be a First World War recruit.

Safety and Participation

  • Suitable for children and young people, with activities adapted to age and ability.

  • Maximum of 20 participants per workshop.

  • All activities conducted under direct supervision.

  • Only safe, purpose-made drill equipment will be used.

  • Clear safety instructions will be given before participation.

  • The organiser provides a suitable designated activity area with sufficient space for participants.

Three workshops. Sixty potential recruits. One journey back to the Great War.

s like to prepare for military service during the First World War.

Under the guidance of our historical instructor, recruits will be put through their paces as they learn about the training, discipline and daily life of soldiers during the Great War.