Keep Calm and Carry On! Watch Year 5 children perform a historical re-enactment in the grounds of Killerton House

Children from Year 5 at Broadclyst Community Primary School will be performing a costumed historical re-enactment set in the 1940s at Killerton House on 30 June and 01 July. Keep Calm and Carry On will tell the story of young evacuees who arrived at Killerton when it became a school during World War 2.

The historical re-enactment is set to explore the day after the Exeter Blitz, as the evacuated schoolchildren sheltered at Killerton House and grounds. The performances will focus on the involvement of the Home Guard and Land Army's impact on the Killerton estate, whilst also exploring what life was like for children and teachers at the 'evacuated school'.

With four performances in total, at 10.15am – 11.15am and 4.00pm – 5.00pm on both days, the whole year group is involved in the production, which is made up of a number of small sketches telling different parts of the larger story. These will take place around the house and grounds of this stunning National Trust property, with which the school has long had a close link.

National Trust Volunteers will also take groups on tours, visiting significant locations from Killerton's history during this era.

Jonathan Bishop, CEO and Executive Headteacher of the Cornerstone Academy Trust, explained the importance of these performances to the children: “This has traditionally been an annual event, through which the children of Broadclyst School learn about key events in local history. They have done their research and developed their dramatic skills in order to bring to life an outstanding moment in history against the stunning backdrop of Killerton House.”

Killerton House and gardens are open to the public and all will be welcome. There is no charge for the performances, but National Trust admission charges apply for entry to the grounds.