Today, on the solemn occasion of Holocaust Memorial Day, a group of Year 9 History students had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in an educational and moving event. Organised in collaboration with the National Literacy Trust, the students attended a live interview with Holocaust survivor Mala Tribich and renowned children’s author Tom Palmer, who penned the book “After The War.”
During this enlightening session, Mala Tribich shared her harrowing yet inspiring life story, detailing her experiences growing up in a Polish ghetto during the Nazi occupation. She recounted the struggles and hardships she faced as a young girl, providing the students with a deeply personal insight into one of history’s darkest chapters.
The narrative continued as Mala described her life after the war, including her journeys to Sweden and England. The students were particularly moved by her emotional recollection of reuniting with her brother, the only other surviving member of her family. Her story highlighted the importance of resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Complementing Mala’s powerful testimony, Tom Palmer discussed his book “After The War,” which is based on real events and experiences of child Holocaust survivors. His insights offered a unique perspective on how literature can help young people understand and empathise with the experiences of those who lived through the Holocaust.
The event also included an exploration of various books and resources about the Holocaust, available for students to borrow from the school library. This selection aimed to encourage further reading and research on the topic, helping students gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and the impact of these events on individuals and communities.
The event not only served as a valuable educational experience but also as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering and learning from history to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.
