Remembrance: Day of Reflection

Today our school community came together in an Act of Remembrance. The day started with a whole school assembly dedicated to Remembrance as King’s St Alban’s Head, Mr Chapman led proceedings and spoke about why we wear poppies and their wider significance. Pupils were fascinated to discover the significance of the individual elements which make up the poppy. They later reflected upon the service and the sacrifices which the brave sailors, soldiers and airmen made for our country in the World Wars and other conflicts.

The Royal British Legion play an important role in helping us to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Mr Chapman spent time talking about the work of the charity, and also focused on the charity’s motto: “Remember the dead; don’t forget the living.” Pupils heard about the signing of the Armistice and why Remembrance takes place on the 11th  hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.

The whole school then joined together to sing  O God, Our Hope in Ages Past. It was a splendid performance and really helped set the tone for the day. The assembly also touched upon the current conflicts in the Middle East and our school values.

At the end of morning break, Prep School pupils came together as The Last Post sounded out across the playground. Meanwhile, in the Pre-Prep School, pupils from Reception through to Year Two demonstrated their extensive knowledge of Remembrance Day: from the significance of the poppy to why we mark the occasion, pupils had their hands in the air, keen to share their understanding.

And in Nursery, our youngest pupils marked Remembrance Day by getting a little mucky and using their handprints to create a stunningly beautiful Remembrance wreath. The children then undertook the short walk to the War Memorial outside Worcester Cathedral to lay their wreath.

Throughout the whole week, pupils across the School have been taking part in remembrance-themed activities. On Wednesday afternoon, Year Five pupils learnt about why poppies are used as the symbol of remembrance, looking at John McCrae’s poem In Flanders Fields. As well as learning about the Royal British Legion and the red poppy, pupils found out about different colour poppies and what they represent. Some pupils went on to design their own poppies, giving reasons for their colour choices.

King’s St Alban’s pupils, parents and staff have also been showing their support for The Poppy Appeal, raising money for the families of those who have lost their lives or been injured in service by making contributions for poppies and other merchandise, which have been available in the School Office all week.

It has been a day of reflection for all at King’s St Alban’s and it has been an inspiring sight to see how our community has come together to mark this occasion.