We began the day with a thoughtful and moving whole-school Remembrance Assembly led by Reverend George, who helped the children understand the importance of remembrance and why we pause each year to honour those affected by war and conflict. During the assembly, pupils also learnt about the significant roles that Scouts and Guides played during the First World War, helping to deepen their understanding of the many ways young people contributed during times of conflict.

A special “Thank You” goes to Miss Cooper for organising and bringing together our Guides, Scouts, Beavers, Cubs, Brownies and Squirrels, all proudly wearing their club uniforms. It was wonderful to see so many young people represented and taking part in such a meaningful occasion. Their presence provided an opportunity to recognise the important contributions these organisations have made throughout history and continue to make within our communities today.

At 11am, pupils and staff observed the national two-minute silence with great respect and maturity, taking time to remember and honour all those who lost their lives during the First World War and in conflicts since.

Throughout the week, we also supported the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, raising funds for veterans and their families through the sale of poppies and remembrance merchandise. Across the academy, children engaged in a wide range of meaningful learning experiences linked to remembrance. From creating poppies and designing memorials to sharing stories of remembrance and reflecting on the sacrifices made by others, our pupils demonstrated great respect, maturity and understanding throughout their learning.

In Nursery, children watched a CBeebies Remembrance video and worked together to create a large poppy wreath, proudly displayed in the school window. In Key Stage One, pupils produced beautiful poppy-themed artwork, took part in the two-minute silence, watched a mindful remembrance video and shared stories linked to remembrance, alongside additional themed activities during provision time.

In Upper Key Stage Two, pupils explored the significance of Remembrance Day through their World War II history studies. Year 5 and Year 6 children took part in lessons examining why we remember, the impact of war on communities and how acts of remembrance help us honour those who made sacrifices for future generations. Year 4 pupils also reflected on the importance of remembrance through the story Where the Poppies Now Grow by Hilary Robinson and related learning activities.

We are incredibly proud of the thoughtful way our children engaged with this important occasion. Their respectful attitudes and mature reflections demonstrated our school values of respect, responsibility and community, while helping to ensure that the sacrifices of others are remembered by future generations.

Thank you to everyone who helped make today such a meaningful and memorable occasion.

Lest we forget.