Remembering Together:
emembering Together: Mansel Park Primary & Nursery School's Remembrance Day Tribute
On November 11th, Mansel Park Primary & Nursery School gathered together to honour and remember those who have sacrificed their lives in times of war. It was a day filled with reflection, respect, and unity, as our school community came together to pay tribute to the heroes of the past and present.
A Sea of Poppies: Crafting Remembrance
In the days leading up to Remembrance Day, every child at Mansel Park created their own poppy as part of a special art project. From Nursery to Year 6, the children worked together to craft bright, beautiful poppies, each one a symbol of remembrance. The school grounds were soon filled with these vibrant flowers, each poppy telling its own story of sacrifice and courage.
The children took great pride in their creations, and their poppies became a powerful symbol of the collective respect we have for those who fought in conflicts throughout history. It was heartening to see our school community involved in such a meaningful project.
Laying the Wreath: A Special Moment at the Southampton Cenotaph
One of the most poignant moments of the week came when a member of the school council, accompanied by staff, laid a wreath at the Southampton Cenotaph. This wreath, adorned with a simple message of remembrance, was placed in honour of the countless men and women who gave their lives for our country.
The act of laying the wreath was a solemn and powerful gesture, one that connected our school to the wider community. It was a reminder that even as children, we have a role to play in remembering the sacrifices made by others, and in showing our gratitude for the freedoms we enjoy today.
Poetry Service: Year 6 Leads with Reflection
On the Friday afternoon, Year 6 children held a special poetry service, where they shared their own poems and reflections on the theme of remembrance. The students' words were thoughtful, poignant, and beautifully written, offering a window into the ways in which they have processed the meaning of Remembrance Day.
The poetry ranged from heartfelt tributes to veterans, to personal reflections on what it means to honour the past. The Year 6 students spoke with maturity and respect, and their words served as a reminder that the power of remembrance transcends time and age.
A Moment of Silence: Honouring the Fallen
The day began with a whole-school assembly, where we gathered together to reflect on the significance of Remembrance Day. As a school, we observed a minute's silence at 11 a.m., standing together in quiet reflection for those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It was a powerful and humbling moment as we stood in solidarity with people all around the world, remembering the fallen.
The silence was a time for personal reflection, for each of us to pause and think about the many lives lost, the families affected, and the enduring impact of war. It was a time for the whole school to come together and acknowledge the importance of peace.
A Day to Remember
As the day came to a close, it was clear that the spirit of remembrance had touched everyone at Mansel Park Primary School. From the beautiful poppies to the moving poetry, the laying of the wreath, and the shared silence, the day was a reminder that we are all part of a larger community of remembrance and respect.
At Mansel Park, we don’t just remember one day of the year—we remember every day. The lessons of Remembrance Day are ones that stay with us, helping us to appreciate the peace we have, and to recognise the sacrifices that were made to ensure we could live the lives we do today.
Lest we forget.
