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Findmypast.co.uk have released records from The National Archives relating to theKindertransport refugee programme. Online for the first time, for Holocaust Memorial Day, these records tell the story of young Jewish children, who sought refuge in Britain at the outbreak of the Second World War. They include lists of refugees, British government correspondence and official reports. The records offer insights into the experiences of these children in Britain.

Cover from the Movement for the care of children from Germany booklet (catalogue reference HO 213/302)

The children were placed in British foster homes, hostels, schools and farms. Often they were the only members of their families who survived the Holocaust. A number of older Kinder went on to join the British Army and fight against Germany later in the war.

Caroline Kimbell, Head of Licensing at The National Archives added: ‘This record collection is an important source for those researching their Jewish ancestors, and a moving testament to the generosity and humanity of those who rescued so many children in desperate circumstances.  Not only do these digitised documents give us a picture of what life was like for the children on their arrival, but they also offer insight into government thinking in the build-up to and early years of the war.’

In yesterday’s blog post, records expert Dr Juliette Desplat examines records which show the horror and inhumanity of Auschwitz.

Learn more about Kindertransport in our classroom resource.