World War 2 - Codebreaking Journey
The most unique codebreaking workshop for primary schools.
It’s 1940 and the world is at war.
Germany has invaded Poland, France, Holland and Belgium, and intelligence suggests that Operation Sea Lion, the invasion of Great Britain, is imminent.
We’ve intercepted enemy radio signals and sent them to Bletchley Park, home of the country’s codebreakers.
These messages have been encoded using German Enigma machines and must be deciphered and delivered to military command as quickly as possible.
Can your pupils crack the code?
Our facilitator will introduce cryptography to your young codebreakers, beginning with a unique and engaging approach to Morse Code through movement.
Overview
- Up to 6 sessions in a full day
- 45–60 minute sessions, tailored to fit your school timetable
- Sessions can fit around the school day, lunchtimes and breaks
- Delivered one class at a time
- Suitable for Year 2 – Year 6
- Delivered in school halls or large indoor spaces
- All equipment provided
- Strong focus on teamwork, problem-solving and logical thinking
Pupils will step into the role of wartime codebreakers, working against the clock to decode intercepted enemy messages.
They will explore how information was hidden and protected during World War II, and why secure communication played a vital role in the war effort.
Using messages inspired by German Enigma machines, children will begin to understand how complex codes were created and why accuracy and attention to detail were essential.
Our facilitator introduces cryptography in an accessible and engaging way, beginning with a unique approach to Morse Code through movement.
This physical introduction helps pupils grasp abstract ideas through action, making learning memorable and inclusive for different learning styles.
From the science of secrecy used by the ancient Egyptians to important wartime codes, this is a workshop with a difference.
Children will identify patterns, test theories, and work collaboratively to crack codes, developing logical thinking and problem-solving skills along the way.
Best delivered in a school hall, this journey can be tailored to age and ability and is flexible around your school timetable.
A fascinating and challenging session that encourages teamwork, focus and resilience.
What Will Your Students Do?
Learn Morse Code Through Movement
Discover Morse Code using a unique physical approach that brings communication to life.
Decode Wartime Messages
Work together to decipher encrypted messages sent using Enigma-style coding.
Explore the History of Cryptography
Learn how codes have been used throughout history, from ancient civilisations to World War II.
Work as a Codebreaking Team
Collaborate, problem-solve, and think logically to complete the mission under pressure.
Why Schools Love the WW2 Codebreaking Journey
Ready to Bring the WW2 Codebreaking Journey Into Your School?
A hands-on, immersive workshop that brings World War II history and the art of codebreaking to life, encouraging pupils to think critically, work collaboratively, and solve problems through engaging real-world challenges.