Staff and students at Tewkesbury Academy held a poignant Remembrance Day to pay their respects to those who lost their lives defending the country in wartime – including a former pupil.
It was with pride that the whole school community, joined by the Boys’ Brigade, Scouts, Guides and Air, Army and Sea Cadets, observed an impeccable silence. Students conducted themselves in an exemplary manner throughout the occasion.
Head Student Archie recited We Will Remember Them in the presence of Mrs Stuart – mother of former student Matthew. Matthew died in the Falklands War in service of his country. Each year a small group gathers at the tree planted in his memory and this year Ellena, Tewkesbury’s second Head Student, laid a wreath at his tree. Guests were particularly moved by Helen Walters of Tewkesbury Town Band’s playing of The Last Post – sombre notes that represent so much for so many.
Principal Kathleen McGillycuddy said: “You would be humbled and immensely proud of the children and young people of Tewkesbury as all of them plus colleagues observed the ceremony in respectful silence. Mrs Stuart was moved to tears by our students and the event itself.
“As I said last year, our freedom as a country has been reinforced and secured over the years as a result of the sacrifice of many young service men and women. Today we remember them. Today as we see lives shattered in Israel and in Gaza we hope for peace, we hope we learn the lessons of the past and we remember those who gave their lives for us.”
Photos: thanks to Jack Boskett/Nick Jones.
