Learning Activity
Key Stage 2
Stories of migration and the search for a better life
Education resources from the British Empire and
Commonwealth Museum
For more information please contact the learning team on: 0117 925 4980 ext 207 or email: learning@commonwealthonline.org.uk

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At the beginning of the 20 th Century, one quarter of the world’s population lived in the British empire
The British empire covered one quarter of the world’s land surface
At the end of 20 th Century Britain had 14 dependent territories outside the British Isles, small islands with a combined population of just over 2 million.
There are 54 Commonwealth countries, over half in the developing world.
After the 2 nd World War the British government encouraged immigration to Britain under the European Volunteer Workers Scheme
Look at our interactive map: www.commonwealthonline.org.uk/learning-teaching/learning-country/
Education resources from the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum

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Many non-white people also began to migrate to Britain from the
Caribbean, South Africa, and India
Some of the immigrants served in the British forces during the 2 nd World War
Others came in search of better opportunities
Many immigrants were skilled or professional people and there was plenty of work for everyone
Education resources from the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum

Reasons why people leave to live in another country:
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Education resources from the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum

Suitcase stories:
What do
I take with me?
Education resources from the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum

Investigate your characters through your objects/ image cards
Mohindra Chowdhry Roy Hackett
Sheila Mitchell Bane Precious McKenzie
Education resources from the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum

Discuss the following questions in your group:
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Is your character male or female
Why did he/she come to England?
What ethnic group /culture did he/she belong to?
What job/skill did he/she have?
Any other findings?
Education resources from the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum

Present your characters to your class
Education resources from the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum

Watch and listen to your character tell their story
(Watch videos on this page or click here to view the files on our website) http://www.commonwealthonlin
e.org.uk/learningteaching/learning-key-stage/keystage-2-video-archive/
Mohindra Chowdhry
Sheila Mitchell Bane
Roy Hackett
Precious McKenzie
Education resources from the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum