A MOST DESPERATE UNDERTAKING: THE BRITISH ARMY IN THE CRIMEA 1854-56

William Howard Russell’s reports for The Times from the Crimean front line helped revolutionise the way the British public perceived the army. His descriptions of the suffering of British soldiers in the Russian winter - which he blamed on army command’s inadequate preparations for war - led to extreme public indignation, the Government’s demise and to rapid reform.

This exhibition at the National Army Museum, London SW3, analyses the role of army command and the impact of civilians such as Russell and Florence Nightingale on the war. Exhibits include a lamp used by Florence Nightingale, the order directing the Charge of the Light Brigade, Lord Raglan’s telescope, Captain Walker’s VC and diary and Roger Fenton’s photographs.

Tel: 020 7730 0717

www.national-army-museum.ac.uk

OCTOBER 6-11

ITALIAN LANGUAGE WEEK

An open day for teachers of Italian is among the events being held at The Italian Cultural Institute to celebrate the week. The programme includes workshops, book presentations and the launch of “Insegnare l’italiano con il teatro” (Teaching Italian through Drama Workshops). Bookings must be made in advance. Each evening there will be discussions on the language of such topics as football, writers and the media, and a performance of Dante Inferno by the Magazzini theatre group. ICI, 39 Belgrave Square, London SW1.

Tel: 020 7235 1461

3 Rs FOR 4 Rs (Rescue, Reunite, Rehabilitate and Rehome)

This free primary pack from Battersea Dogs Home features cartoons by Jason Chapman. Encompassing PSHE citizenship, literacy, history, art and design and technology, it helps teach about the joys and responsibilities of owning a dog.

Tel: 020 627 9295

Email: c.green@dogshome.org

NATURE DETECTIVES

This Woodland Trust scheme, supported by a pound;373,000 heritage lottery grant, enables schools and after-school clubs to help protect and enhance our ancient woodland. It forms part of the UK Phenology Network (UKPN) which monitors and evaluates changes in nature’s events. Teaching materials, advice and training will be provided. Data from the past 300 years that was previously hidden in archives and record centres will also be accessible on the UKPN’s online database.

Tel: 01476 581135

www.woodland-trust.org.uk