Remembrance Day at St Peter’s stands as a solemn occasion dedicated to paying tribute to those who served and sacrificed for the country. This local event goes beyond traditional commemorations by focusing on individuals from the community—soldiers, nurses, volunteers, and unsung heroes—whose stories have shaped both local history and national legacy. The school and parish community come together not just to remember but to engage students and families in meaningful reflection and education.
Historical Background of Remembrance Day
Origin of the Day
Established after World War I to honour those who died in military service
First observed on 11 November 1919, marking the anniversary of the Armistice
Symbolism of the Red Poppy
Inspired by the poem In Flanders Fields
Worn as a symbol of respect and remembrance across the UK
St Peter’s Involvement Through the Years
Held annual services since the 1950s
Developed a tradition of integrating local military history into school curriculum
Community Participation at St Peter’s
Local Veterans and Families
Invited to attend and speak about their experiences
Presented with tokens of appreciation from students
School Involvement
Year groups assigned roles—choirs, wreath-laying, historical presentations
History and English classes prepare readings and tributes
Religious Observance
Special mass conducted by the parish priest
Prayer for peace and remembrance of the fallen read aloud
Remembrance Week Activities
Activity
Description
Poppy Craft Workshop
Students create poppy pins and cards for veterans
Living History Presentations
Local speakers recount war stories and share artefacts
Poetry Recital
Selected poems such as For the Fallen and student-written verses performed
Silent Assembly
Entire school observes a moment of silence at 11 AM on 11th November
Poster Exhibition
Art students display themed posters on peace and sacrifice
Local Heroes Honoured in 2025
Name
Contribution
Connection to St Peter’s
Sergeant Thomas Ellery
Served in WWII, awarded Military Cross for bravery
Grandfather of former student Lucy Ellery
Nurse Amelia Grayson
Volunteered during the Blitz, treated hundreds in local shelters
Lived two streets from St Peter’s School
Private Daniel Kaur
Participated in Afghanistan operations, honoured posthumously
Alumni of St Peter’s Secondary
Reverend Charles Merton
Chaplain during World War I, provided aid at the front lines
Former vicar of St Peter’s Parish
Student Reflections and Contributions
Essay Competitions
Senior students wrote on the theme “Service and Sacrifice: What It Means Today”
Winning entries read during the ceremony
Art and Poetry Submissions
Displayed in the community hall throughout the week
Highlighted personal interpretations of remembrance and war
Music and Performance
Choir performed Abide With Me and I Vow to Thee, My Country
Year 9 drama students re-enacted historical scenes from World War II
Wreath-Laying Ceremony
Group
Wreath Type
Presented By
St Peter’s Primary Pupils
Red poppies with white doves
Head Boy and Head Girl
Local Veteran Association
Laurel and poppy intertwined
Mr. James Burton, Royal Navy veteran
Parish and Clergy
White lilies and red roses
Father Michael of St Peter’s Parish
Parent-Teacher Association (PTA)
Hand-knitted poppies
PTA President Mrs. Helen Arnold
Special Recognitions and Awards
Local Service Medal Presentation
Given to elderly residents who served during or after wartime
Ceremony included medal pinning by student leaders
Memory Scroll Project
Scroll bearing names of all local servicemen and women unveiled
Created through joint effort by school’s history department and parish records
Hero’s Wall Unveiling
New permanent installation near school entrance
Features photos and short biographies of 25 local heroes from past conflicts
Educational Impact on Students
Aspect
Effect on Students
Historical Awareness
Increased understanding of world wars and local involvement
Community Connection
Stronger bond with neighbourhood through shared memories and stories
Empathy and Values
Developed appreciation for peace, service, and bravery
Research Skills
Improved through projects using war diaries, oral histories, and archival material
Voices from the Community
Parent Comment
“The most powerful event of the year. My child now talks about great-grandpa’s war medals with pride.”
Student Reflection
“I never knew someone from my street flew planes in the war. It made history real for me.”
Teacher Note
“This year’s Remembrance Day had the deepest participation yet. It was humbling and educational.”
Support from Local Organisations
Royal British Legion
Donated poppies and provided speaker on modern veterans’ needs
Community Heritage Centre
Offered artefacts and uniforms for display
Supported the Hero’s Wall research and timeline project
Town Council
Provided funding for ceremony logistics
Issued certificates of appreciation to student volunteers
The Way Forward
Remembrance Day at St Peter’s remains a heartfelt tribute rooted in history, education, and community. Each year brings new stories, greater student involvement, and deeper respect for those who served. The 2025 observance not only honored the fallen but also passed their legacy into the hands of the younger generation. Through projects, prayers, and participation, the school continues to ensure their memories live on with dignity.
