Remembrance Day 2025

The Castle School Comes Together in Remembrance

On Remembrance Day 2025, students and staff at The Castle School gathered in an Act of Remembrance to honour the bravery, service, and sacrifice of those who have served in the Armed Forces. The event was led by the Junior Leadership Team, Post-16 students, and representatives from local uniformed and charity groups.

Head Students Zuzanna and Tommie, both from Year 11, opened the ceremony by welcoming everyone and acknowledging the presence of the Air Cadets, Army Cadets, Scouts, Girl Guiding, and student volunteer representatives from the charity Krunch South West.

The assembly was marked by heartfelt readings of Anne Starr’s poem “Why Do I Wear a Poppy?” performed by students across all the uniformed groups. Each verse reflected on the importance of remembrance, not just for one day but for all who continue to live with the effects of conflict.

From Emily in Year 7’s touching introduction to Maddy (Year 10), Emma (Year 7), Alfie (Year 8), Angel (Year 9), George (Year 9), and Cora (Year 10), every student’s voice contributed to a powerful message of gratitude and respect.

The Act of Remembrance followed, led by Isabelle (Year 12) representing Post-16, who recited The Exhortation:

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old…”

This was followed by Ivy-Kate (Year 8) sounding The Last Post, after which the school observed a two-minute silence. Ivy-Kate then played Reveille, symbolising renewal and hope.

Finally, Anna, Deputy Head Student in Year 11, closed the ceremony with the Kohima Epitaph:

“When you go home, tell them of us and say,
For your tomorrow, we gave our today.”

The morning was a powerful reflection of how The Castle School community came together in unity and respect. Students, staff, charity and uniformed groups stood side by side to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who have served and continue to serve, so that we may live in peace. The shared silence and heartfelt tributes showed the strength of remembrance within our school, reminding everyone that together, we keep their memory alive.