"Class 8a are exploring the historical context that preceded the First World War, observing the explosive potential of developments late in the 19^th and beginning of the 20^th centuries.  A terrible lesson followed, with destruction and suffering that can't just be counted in the appalling loss of lives, but in the onward effect on cultural and technological progress.  The desire for speed, power, and riches is the dark side of the many wonderful achievements of the 20^th Century, leaving us to reflect on how this might be mitigated in the future.  As always, when studying history, we have been considering where these desires for speed, comfort, power, etc. originate.  A simple answer - within ourselves - is a good start.  This means we can make a difference, no matter how modest, and change the world, however slightly." Oliver Harkness, Class 8a Class Teacher