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Film synopsis

1945 was a pivotal year in British history. The unity that carried Britain through the war allied to the bitter memories of the inter-war years led to a vision of a better society. The spirit of the age was to be our brother’s and our sister’s keeper. Director Ken Loach has used film from Britain’s regional and national archives, alongside sound recordings and contemporary interviews, to create a rich political and social narrative. The Spirit of '45 hopes to illuminate and celebrate a period of unprecedented community spirit in the UK, the impact of which endured for many years and which may yet be rediscovered today.

Teachers' notes

These materials exploring Ken Loach’s impassioned documentary are aimed at young people learning English and history from ages 11 – 18. With a focus on intergenerational dialogue, this resource is designed to develop students’ confidence in speaking and listening and their skills of historical enquiry. Activities encourage young people to watch the film, ideally with someone who lived through the period represented, and to familiarise themselves with the official digital project at www.thespiritof45.com.

The film is on general release from March 15th and there will be coordinated nationwide screenings at 3pm on Sunday March 17th. These will include a live question and answer session with the director Ken Loach broadcast via satellite and viewers will have the opportunity to send in questions beforehand. For full listings of where these screenings will take place, go to www.thespiritof45.com/screenings.

Intergenerational resource PDF:

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