Last week, history students deepened their understanding of the Cold War during a trip to Berlin. In A level history module The Cold War, c1945-1991, students dive into origins, development and conclusion of the Cold War, including how East and West Germany were created and then eventually reunified.

Seeing parts of the original the Berlin Wall in person was a compelling way to reimagine life during the Cold War, and students were able to do just that during a tour of the Wall Memorial. They also toured the Unterwelten (Cold War bunkers), which brought to life the tensions and instability of the Cold War period as experienced by everyday Germans.

As well as elements of Cold War history, students took the opportunity to visit parts of Berlin familiar to them from other subjects and other areas of German history, including the Bundestag Dome, Brandenburg Gate, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe.

Student Florian said a highlight was visiting the Reichstag. "It was nice having the opportunity to take a moment and appreciate the stunning architecture whilst learning about its history. Similar to this, the interactive DDR Museum was great. The interactive element really made me feel immersed in Soviet-controlled East Germany since we got to learn about aspects that are often overlooked like family life and music. Lastly, touring the Stasi prison was really insightful as someone interested in state power, control and surveillance. Overall, it was an amazing experience."

Of course, our Year 13 historians couldn't return home without sampling traditional German currywurst!

This has been a trip to remember, one which will help not on only in their history A level studies, but to understand the origins of the forces that shaped global politics in the twenieth century and today.