As we come to the end of November, it seems a good opportunity to reflect on how our school marked the centenary of the end of the First World War. The whole school started the week by joining school’s from around the world in the Remembrance Assembly live from the Tower of London via a webcast. The pupils in 4+ had made their own poppies in preparation and these were displayed in class.
The older children had been busy writing poetry and prayers as they considered the experiences of the soldiers and the impact their actions have had on our lives today. Year five studied a short film entitled ‘The piano’ which features an elderly man reflecting on the friends he left behind in battle.
On Tuesday 11th November the whole school visited St Peter’s Church for our Remembrance Service and were joined by parents and governors. At 11.00am our brass teacher, Mr Haigh, played the last post to mark the two minutes silence. The service was led by Rev Janet Gaspar who shared with the children the experience of her grandfather who fought in the war. Children in year five and six shared prayers and all of the children were reminded of the importance of wearing a poppy. The year six children had been selling poppies and a few other items as well raising money for a very important cause.
The year three and four football team took part in a football tournament at Fleckney Primary School to commemorate the Christmas truce match. The event included six school and our team emerged as worthy winners.
To finish the events, the year five children went on a trip to London to see Warhorse. The class have been studying Michael Morpurgo and found the performance at the National Theatre a wonderful way to consider the impact the war had on people’s lives.
I am very proud of the way in which our pupils remembered those who gave their lives for our country, both during World War One and subsequent conflicts. Through lessons, trips and collective worship, they have understood why 11thNovember should always be a very important date and why this year was of particular significance.