To mark VE Day, we've put together this collection of teaching resources for you to use with your primary or secondary school students.
When is VE Day?
On 8 May 1945, Prime Minister Winston Churchill announced that the war in Europe had come to an end, following Germany's surrender the day before.
This became known as VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day, and it is commemorated every year on 8 May. 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the original VE Day.
When is VJ Day?
Although the war had ended in Europe, fighting continued in the Pacific until 15 August 1945, when Japan surrendered, observed as Victory over Japan Day, or VJ Day. This BBC news report from 1945 reports on the VJ Day celebrations in London.
The VE Day and VJ Day 80 commemoration website has information on how you can get involved in the upcoming celebrations.
Primary resources
KS2 - VE Day. video
This short film explains what VE Day and VJ Day were, and the events that led to the end of the war.
KS2 - Britain declares war on Germany. video
This short film offers an overview of the events that led to Britain declaring war on Germany in 1939.
KS2 - Carrie's War audio
Age 9 - 11. Nina Bawden's classic story set during WW2 is told in 10 episodes.
KS2 - The Machine Gunners. audio
Age 9 - 11. An abridgement in 10 episodes of Robert Westall's popular WW2 story.
KS2 - VJ Day celebrations. audio
A reporter describes VJ Day celebrations in London on 15 August 1945
KS2 - WW2 Clips. Nazi Germany surrenders. audio
News report describing the signing of Nazi Germany’s surrender.
Secondary resources
VE Day 80th anniversary – secondary assembly. collection
An assembly framework and video to commemorate 'VE Day' on 8 May and to consider what life was like in the UK in the years immediately after World War Two.
World War Two stories. collection
Perfect for classroom activities marking VE Day, these short videos produced in partnership with Imperial War Museums feature the personal testimony of veterans and eyewitnesses of World War Two.
KS3/GCSE - World War Two. collection
Video resources for secondary schools, perfect to use with students studying World War Two.
GCSE - WW2: How did the British plan to celebrate VE Day? video
VE Day or Victory in Europe Day was on 8 May 1945, following Germany's surrender in WW2. But how did Britain plan for one of the greatest days in its history?
Across the BBC
Newsround: How is VE Day being marked around the UK?
An article from Newsround explaining more about VE Day.
Horrible Histories - WWII VE Day Song. video
A song all about VE Day from CBBC's Horrible Histories.
