13/11/2026
At the Watercress Line we are currently developing a brand-new Cold War education programme, "Spies on the Line", and would love the input of Hampshire’s Heads of History and subject leads to help us shape it.
The programme will explore the fascinating local links to the 1960s Portland Spy Ring. Specifically, it looks at how Soviet agents used the public toilets at Alresford Station as a covert "dead drop" to pass on secrets bound for the USSR, before travelling by train up to London to exchange messages and intelligence.
To make sure this new workshop is as engaging, practical, and relevant as possible to your GCSE curriculum and current units of study, we are hosting an informal teacher focus group consultation and would value your network's views and opinions.
Focus Group Details:
• When: Early January (exact date to be confirmed), 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
• Where: Ropley Station, The Watercress Line (SO24 0BL)
• Refreshments: Tea, coffee, and biscuits will be provided
This session will be a great opportunity for history teachers to hear more about our initial plans, share what works best for their students, and directly influence the content and curriculum links of the programme before launch.
Would you be able to circulate this invitation to your secondary history network across Hampshire?
Anyone interested in attending—or sharing their thoughts if they cannot make it in person, please email me at [email protected], so we can finalise the January date that works best for everyone.
