Remembrance has been especially meaningful at Clayesmore this year, with our school community coming together on two occasions to honour those who have lost their lives in conflict and to reflect on the importance of remembrance in the world today.
On the Friday before Remembrance Sunday, we held separate Remembrance Services for the Prep and Senior Schools. Both services included the reading of the Roll of Honour, remembering the 88 Old Clayesmorians who lost their lives in the two World Wars. It was an opportunity to reflect not only on their individual stories and sacrifices, but also on all those who have died in conflict, both past and present.
Lieutenant Commander Victoria Rees-Hughes addressed the Prep School, sharing stories of Old Clayesmorians, many of whom are remembered in the stained-glass window in the Chapel. At the Senior School service, Commander Mark Newland RN (Retd) spoke about why it remains so important to remember events that took place more than a century ago, and the lessons they continue to hold for us today.
Music and reflection played an important part in both services. The Choir, joined by several new members, sang the moving anthem For the Fallen, while the Last Post and Reveille was played with great skill and composure by Miss Raymond at the Prep service and Callum at the Senior service.
Today, on 11 November, the whole school came together once again for a collective act of remembrance, marking Armistice Day and observing the two-minute silence.
As our Head, Rob Lane, reflected in his recent message to the school community, remembrance is about much more than looking back. Clayesmore has a proud history of service, and the courage and sacrifice of former pupils and members of staff remain an important part of our school’s story. Our military connections also continue today, through the many military families within our community, whose service and sacrifices deserve recognition and gratitude.
At a time of continuing conflict and uncertainty around the world, Remembrance Day feels as relevant as ever. It reminds us not to take peace and freedom for granted, and encourages us to consider the values of courage, compassion, service and responsibility.
We remember all those who have served, all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and all those whose lives continue to be affected by conflict.
We will remember them.