Discovery Boxes

NEW for 2026! We are delighted to offer schools the opportunity to bring Brooklands into the classroom with our new Discovery Boxes for loan. Designed to compliment the curriculum, these hands-on resources give pupils the opportunity to explore, discover and learn through objects and activities.

Choose from two themed boxes, each designed to support learning from Early Years through to Key Stage 2. Whether you are introducing a new topic, extending classroom learning or looking for a practical activity, the boxes provide an engaging ways for pupils to discover more about local history and the Second World War.

Price: Boxes are £25 for a two week loan period.

Local History Box

Investigate Brooklands’ past, turning from woods and farms to a racetrack to an aviation hub and eventually a museum. Learn about people who worked there and the amazing things they achieved. Feel and use objects linked to Brooklands’ history, such as model vehicles, maps, and helmets, complete with detailed information about each item and planned activities linking to the national curriculum.

Second World War Box

The Second World War had a huge impact on the UK, and Brooklands was no exception. With this discovery box, you explore Brooklands’ contribution to the war effort, from the aircraft that were made, to the inspiring minds behind Britain’s success, and what it was like for ordinary people living in the local area. The objects within tell a story of life during the war, and are accompanied by explanations of the purpose and significance of each item and activities planned that link to the national curriculum.

Local History Box Contents Example

Bespoke activity resources, including worksheets relating to art and design, history, literacy and STEM

Castrol Oil Jug

Brooklands Museum Maps

Worker's Cap

School Slate Boards

Car Window Handles

Racing Helmet

Bicycle Seat

Driving Licences

Concorde Model

Model car

Motorcycle Helmet

Racing Helmet

Racing and Flying Goggles

Wright Brother Aircraft Model

Second World War Box Contents Example

Bespoke activity resources, including worksheets relating to art and design, history, literacy and STEM

Child's Gas Mask Box

Air Transport Auxiliary Badges

Evacuee Label

Defence Medal

Victory in Europe Day Bunting

Mess Tin

Blitz Information Packs

War Posters and Postcards

Pilot Helmet

Aircraft Identification Poster

Air Raid Shelter Sign

Ration Books

War Newspapers

School Reviews

Teacher - “It brings the learning to life when the children can see objects relating to what they have learnt. The children are interested in physical objects.”
Teacher - “The artefacts would provide an excellent stimulus for discussion, questioning, and deeper thinking, particularly as children at this age benefit greatly from hands-on and visual experiences."
Teacher - “The Year 2s loved the one on the history of Brooklands and it was so funny with them putting the old style helmets on and the goggles etc!”

Discovery Box Enquiry Form

Your details

Full name *

Email address *

Phone number *

School name *

School address *

School admin/reception email address *

Please confirm your planned times to collect and return your discovery box when booking.
Boxes are to be collected from Brooklands Museum main entrance (KT13 0SL) Monday-Friday 10:00-17:00 on the first day of your loan period. Please note that we cannot facilitate pick up on Event Days.
Boxes must be delivered to a member of Brooklands Museum staff by 17:00 Monday-Friday on the last day of your loan period.
Please ensure you are able to transport the discovery box. They are 40cm x 60cm x 30cm; The Second World War box weighs about 3.7kg and the Brooklands: A Local History box weighs about 7.7kg.
There is a £25 charge for late returns up to £100.
Discovery Boxes will be inspected on return. Charges may apply for damaged, lost, or missing items, based on replacement costs and confirmed by Brooklands Museum staff. If a Discovery Box is lost, stolen, or not returned, a £100 replacement charge will apply.