How will these resources help you?

Key Stage 3 History topics are generally approached chronologically and this is an advantage for teaching the miners’ strike of 1984–5. Understanding the tensions between the Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and the National Union of Miners requires an understanding of government, and of the limitations on the power of ministers in general and of the prime minister in particular. Pupils must also have some grasp of what unions are and of what they do. This sort of understanding comes when pupils are older – in Year 9 rather than Year 7 – which makes the end of Year 9 an ideal time to cover the miners’ strike. 
We often teach the miners’ strike as a clash between these two powerful institutions. For example, one might use the iconic photograph of the mounted policeman about to assault a striking miner to address the role of the police. However, the complex situation requires a nuanced approach, including discussion of the destruction of whole communities, the lies and lasting hatreds on all sides and the divisions between families and neighbours. The titles given here consider the role of women, too often side-lined in school and academic texts. Some may be out of print, but they are available second hand or as eBooks. Additionally, if you live in an area once dominated by coal, do contact the record office for local publications, newspaper reports and posters.