Celebrations to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War will be held over four days, with school children able to watch accounts from veterans of the conflict
The nation will see four days of events to mark 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe, the Government has announced.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has revealed every school in the country will be sent resources to reach a new generation. Pupils will be able to watch the testimony of veterans as the nation marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
There is also a “national call out for the public to look for letters written by relatives during the war”. The Imperial War Museum is calling for the public to share letters written by family which can include soldiers on the front line, men women and children on the home front.
Also, on the anniversary of VE Day, May 8th 2025, the new National Theatre film, ‘The Next Morning’ will be released online and will showcase stories of young people after the Second World War
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said: “We must use the 80th anniversary of VE Day to reaffirm our shared commitment to preserve the memory of the men and women across the UK who served and sacrificed so much for the world we live in today. “By remembering and reflecting on their stories, we will pass on the baton to the next generation to ensure that they too can preserve the values that were fought for during the Second World War.”
Second World War veteran Olga Hopkins, 99, who served in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force and became a teacher after the war, said: “The Royal British Legion’s education programme will give teachers and children access to first-hand accounts and living memories of veterans from the Second World War generation.
“Hearing the stories of those who were there 80 years ago on VE Day and lived through the conflict will help children recognise the impact war had on everyone and the freedom they enjoy today…”
