By Mrs Sadler (Head of History and Politics)

On Wednesday 5th July, the Year 9 historians and staff embarked on a two-night, three-day thought-provoking residential trip to Belgium and Northern France to visit the memorial sites around the Ypres and Somme areas.

This residential is a poignant culmination of the work undertaken in History during Year 9 and an introduction to the Great War module studied as part of IGCSE course.

Year 9 built their understanding of the sacrifice made by a generation of young men from Britain and those who heroically volunteered to come to Britain’s aid from around the world. The students were able to reflect on this sacrifice as they saw young men’s names recorded on gravestones from African Nations, Australia, Canada, India (and modern day Bangladesh and Pakistan), as well as the Caribbean Islands. It was a timely and poignant reminder of how men from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds never returned to their homeland.     

During the visit, the students immersed themselves in the rich history of the Ypres and Somme areas, paying homage to the fallen soldiers at various memorial sites. A particularly noteworthy experience was witnessing the last post ceremony at the Menin Gate, a nightly ritual that held deep significance for all in attendance.

During the second day, the year group investigated events in the Somme region, including preparations for 1916 at Sunken Lane, Newfoundland Memorial Park, Lochnagar Crater and the Thiepval Memorial to the missing.

On day three, they returned to the Ypres Salient and visited the German cemetery at Langemark. A clear contrast to white gravestones of the Allied fallen. They concluded their exploration at Tyne Cot Cemetery; Jeanie Morris and Poppy Clarke laid a wreath on behalf of the school in recognition of the 35,000 soldiers who lost their lives on the battlefield around Ypres and yet have no known grave. 

Read student reflections from the trip below:

“I really enjoyed looking at the very eye-opening and inspirational stories of people in the War. The cemeteries were so peaceful and beautiful, which shows how thankful we are for all their service and sacrifice. I found it a sad and thought-provoking experience looking at the many miles of graves of young men who lost their lives.”

“I found the Belgium and France trip extremely moving and educational. I learnt a huge amount. I also had lots of fun with my friends and enjoyed sharing the experience with them.”

“The Belgium and France Trip not only highlighted the significance and magnitude of World War One, but it gave us the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the soldiers and was a great chance to reflect on our history.”