Remembrance Day is a memorial observed in Commonwealth member states since the end of the First World War, to honour members of the armed forces who have died in the line of duty. It is a memorial that transcends faith, culture and background, as we reflect on the service and sacrifice of men and women from across the globe. At Sherfield our staff and students engage in a wide range of activities every year, to learn about and commemorate this important event.
In the week prior to Remembrance Sunday, the Reception classes created their own poppy pictures whilst learning about the importance of the symbol; Year 6 students studied the work of Jacqueline Hurley and were inspired to create their own memorial images using charcoal and paper cut outs; and the Origami Enrichment Club created a series of paper poppies.
On Thursday 11th November, the whole school gathered as Sherfield English Teacher, Capt. (Ret'd) Sutherland led our Remembrance Assembly and Act of Remembrance. A poppy wreath was laid beneath the Blue Plaque commemorating Captain John Aidan Liddell V.C. M.C., a pilot in the Royal Flying Corps who lived at Sherfield Manor House from 1908 and who died in 1915 from injuries sustained during the First World War.
On Sunday 14th November, a number of pupils (Jeanette, Jennifer, Scarlett, Amber, Lily, Gabriella, Nitika, Charlie, Neil, Nathan) represented Sherfield School at the Remembrance Sunday Service at Sherfield-on-Loddon War Memorial. Scarlett, Jeanette and Jennifer laid a wreath on behalf of the school. Lily assisted with the laying of the Royal British Legion wreath and Neil, Nitika and Charlie read the village’s Roll of Honour. One local resident commented that all of the pupils who attended demonstrated dignity and respect during the service and were a credit to the school.
School life moves forward at great pace, but at Sherfield we will always remember.