Introduction – slavery, abolition and emancipation 25 March 2007 marked the bicentenary of the Act for the Abolition of the Slave Trade. It is not compulsory to teach about the slave trade. However, the links to the National Curriculum – particularly in history, citizenship and geography – are clear. The complexities and sensitivities surrounding the subject matter have led to understandable concerns amongst teachers, particularly in primary schools. However, new recommendations for citizenship and history focusing on diversity, shared heritage and identity make the need for high quality resources and support in approaches to teaching and learning even more necessary. The National Maritime Museum is now introducing approaches for teaching around the transatlantic slave trade at lower Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 1, building on its established learning programme and resources for Key Stage 3 and upper Key Stage 2.