On Monday 11 November 2024, our school community stood around the four sides of the Quad, unified in silence and gratitude to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served. Remembrance Day offers us all a rare moment to step away from our routines to reflect on the lives that paved the way for our freedom, and to remember those whose stories we never wish to be forgotten.

The service was led by Reverend Moloney, the School Chaplain, and supported by the CCF Guard of Honour and. The remarkably moving Act of Remembrance saw silence fall across the Quad. Each year, our community stand shoulder to shoulder with a resounding sense of gratitude. A floral wreath was laid upon the war memorial in the centre of the Quad, by The Head, Alex Tate, alongside poppy wreaths placed by the School Captains Flo and Ollie, and Ellie Tredgett, OJ and Teacher of Psychology, on behalf of the Old Johnian community.

This year, as well as hosting our Remembrance Services, we have created our own field of remembrance. The Royal British Legion kindly donated 1,200 wooden poppy crosses which our pupils and staff carefully placed on the Quad in quiet moments of reflection last week. These crosses, dedicated to those who once walked our very paths, have created a poignant and powerful sight – a reminder of lives lived and given for the freedom we cherish today.

We are proud to be raising money for The Royal British Legion. If you would like to donate to this important cause, please click here to visit our fundraising page. Our deepest thanks to those who have supported this already.

As a school, we have taken moments of reflection in further events across the weekend too. The CCF Regimental Dinner took place on Friday evening, with a number of different uniforms in attendance. During our sports fixtures on Saturday, our teams and our pitches were adorned with poppies. On Sunday, the School provided an opportunity for families to join us for our Remembrance Service in Chapel. The Last Post was performed wonderfully by Harry during our service on Sunday, and by Thomas on Monday, alongside the Schola Cantorum who performed beautifully during both services.

As we mark eighty years since D-Day, we further honour the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought in battles during World War II and celebrate the legacy of the D-Day and wartime generation. Click here to read more about the impact of D-Day at St John’s School. The School community are encouraged to visit Chapel if they wish to take a moment for private remembrance and reflection, and to view the names of pupils who gave their lives for our freedoms, inscribed upon honour boards.