Learning Semaphore

When Tower Bridge is about to open, the Bridge Driver communicates with the ship to check that they’re ready to pass through. To do that we now use radio but, back when Tower Bridge was first opened, radio wasn’t invented so they had to use semaphore.

Semaphore is a way of sending messages to people who you can see but are too far away to talk to. Using your arms (or flags), you can spell out words - each position means a different letter.

Can you and your family have a go at sending messages to each other by semaphore using the semaphore alphabet?

Who is this for?

Key Stages: 1 - 2
Curriculum links: Art, Computing, History, Literacy
Perfect for families with kids aged 5-11

Minimum number of people: 2

Equipment needed:

You don’t need flags to send semaphore messages, you can just use your arms. However, you could have a go at making your own semaphore flags using some paper, a stick (a wooden spoon works too!) and some glue or tape.

You might also find it easier if you print off the two downloadable sheets below.