Research and adopt a veteran

About this resource

close up of soldier in uniform wearing poppy

This resource supports teachers to engage students and their school community in commemorating the Centenary of the First World War by researching and adopting an Australian Imperial Force (AIF) veteran.

Through this process students will examine the significance of:

  • Australia’s involvement in the First World War

  • the lasting consequences of the First World War

  • the impact of the First World War on developing Australian identities then and now.

  • encourage schools to ‘adopt a veteran’

  • demonstrate the process of choosing a veteran

  • guide an authentic historical inquiry process through investigating archival records

  • provide ideas for sharing an adopted veteran’s story and incorporation into school programs.

Schools are encouraged to develop an ongoing relationship with current or retired Defence Forces personnel. This person could become a valued member of the school community by:

  • being included in school commemorative events

  • interacting through learning and teaching activities

  • providing appropriate community service support.

thumbnail of Frederick Brightfield

First World War veteran Frederick Charles Brightfield is used to model the research process. The photo icon is used throughout this resource and signals details of Frederick’s story.