Lest We Forget: St Matthew Academy Marks Remembrance Day 

This Remembrance Day, the entire St Matthew Academy community, spanning both our Primary and Secondary phases, came together in solemn gratitude to honor all those who have served and sacrificed in conflict.

Primary Service: Connecting with Living History

Our Primary service was made deeply personal thanks to special guest James Hay, who brought along his grandfather’s wartime medals and shared their significance as he led the assembly. Through his family’s story, James helped our pupils connect directly with history and understand why we gather each year to remember those who lost their lives.

Our youngest pupils in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 created beautiful handmade wreaths, which were proudly laid at the front of the academy as a lasting tribute. During the service, the children paused for a respectful silence, listened to a moving trumpet tribute played by Ms Butterworth, and lent their voices to a heartfelt rendition of Vera Lynn’s classic, We’ll Meet Again.

Secondary & Whole-School Reflection

Members of our Primary and Secondary school community also gathered at the front of the academy for a special outdoor Remembrance service led by our local priest, Fr Mark. The service included a reading of the Gospel, prayers for peace, and moving poem tributes from our students.

We were deeply honored to be joined by our very own Mr Saunders, who wore his military uniform as a mark of respect after serving his country with honor, alongside our dedicated student cadet. Together, we observed two minutes of silence to the sound of the trumpet, reflecting with gratitude on the freedoms we enjoy today.

Thank You

A heartfelt thank you to James Hay for sharing a precious piece of his family’s history with us, to Fr Mark for leading us in prayer, and to Mr Saunders, Ms Butterworth, our student cadet, and all of our pupils for making the day such a meaningful and dignified occasion.

Lest we forget.

 

Rememberance Day