By Mark Cullen 11/11/25
On Tuesday 11th November 2025, Woolston Brook School united in a moment of reflection and respect as all staff and students observed a minute’s silence at 11:00 am to commemorate Remembrance Day. This annual tradition honours the memory of those who lost their lives in armed conflicts, and this year’s observance was marked with quiet dignity and heartfelt participation across the school community.
Remembrance Day, held each year on the 11th of November, has its origins rooted in the end of World War I. At 11am on this date in 1918, the Western Front fell silent as the armistice between Germany and the Allied forces came into effect. The agreement was signed earlier that morning in a railway carriage in the Compiègne Forest in France, symbolising the formal conclusion of a devastating war. Initially known as Armistice Day, the occasion was later renamed Remembrance Day following World War II, broadening its scope to honour all who have died in military service.
At Woolston Brook, the significance of this day was deeply felt. Students and staff came together to reflect on the sacrifices made by countless individuals throughout history. The minute’s silence was held precisely at 11am, echoing the historic moment of the original armistice. This act of remembrance served not only as a tribute to the fallen but also as a poignant moment to consider the value of peace and the heavy cost of conflict.
Throughout the day, students engaged in a variety of learning activities that delved into the history and significance of Remembrance Day. Lessons included thoughtful discussions about the armistice, the profound impact of war, and the importance of commemorating those who served. Staff guided students through the symbolism associated with the day, such as the wearing of poppies, the laying of floral wreaths, and the display of medals. These symbols carry deep meaning; poppies, which grew in the battle-scarred fields of France and Belgium, are often seen as a poignant reminder of the bloodshed experienced during wartime. Wreaths, with their circular shape, represent eternity, while medals honour acts of bravery and dedicated service.
In addition to the activities, the school shared excerpts from Laurence Binyon’s poem “For the Fallen,” including the well-known lines:
"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn."
Remembrance Day at Woolston Brook School was more than a ceremonial observance—it was a meaningful opportunity for students to connect with history, express gratitude, and appreciate the importance of remembering those who gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today. As the eternal flame of remembrance continues to burn in the hearts of the Woolston Brook community, the school remains committed to fostering qualities of respect, empathy, and awareness in its students, ensuring that the lessons of the past are never forgotten.
With such dedication to honouring those who came before, Woolston Brook School sets an example of how education and remembrance can intertwine, building a generation capable of understanding and valuing peace in our world.
