It was a privilege for Year 9 to visit the First World War Battlefields last week, reinforcing the profound impact such a journey can have as pupils gain a deeper understanding of the scale of the sacrifice made between 1914 and 1918.
The group followed a busy itinerary, visiting Ypres on the first day, Arras and the Somme on day two, and Langemark German Cemetery and Tyne Cot British and Commonwealth Cemetery on Passchendaele Ridge on day three. A particular highlight was watching four pupils take part in the Menin Gate Last Post Service, while another poignant moment came during a wreath-laying ceremony, when Mr Hawkes read out the names of the Old Wellingburians who lost their lives at the Somme.
Several pupils were also able to visit the graves or memorials of relatives, creating deeply personal and memorable moments. Seeing pupils stand alongside the names of their great-uncles or great-grandfathers served as a powerful reminder of the lasting connection between the present day and the events of the First World War.
Thank you to staff for accompanying the trip and to parents for the 2.30am drop off.
“I enjoyed the Battlefields trip a lot, particularly visiting Hill 62 and the preserved trenches, which helped me understand the conditions soldiers lived in and fought in during the First World War. I was also one of four pupils chosen to take part in the Menin Gate remembrance ceremony in Ypres, where we laid a wreath on behalf of the School. The trip opened my eyes to how the war was fought and gave me a greater appreciation of the sacrifices made by so many people.” – Year 9 pupil, Oscar
“The Battlefields trip was both educational and deeply moving. Visiting the preserved trenches at Hill 62 and Newfoundland Park, as well as seeing the Lochnagar Crater on the Somme, gave me a much greater understanding of the realities of war. Taking part in the Menin Gate Last Post Service and reflecting at the memorials and cemeteries were particularly memorable experiences. I returned with a deeper appreciation of the sacrifices made during the First World War and the importance of remembering them.” – Year 9 pupil, Will
