On Sunday, 180 of our cadets took part in the Remembrance Sunday service in Bournemouth town centre, joining more than 800 representatives from other youth organisations in paying tribute to those who gave their lives in service of their country. Our cadets were impeccably turned out and conducted themselves with great professionalism and respect throughout the proceedings. The band, in particular, led the parade to the war memorial with distinction, performing before the assembled townspeople in a moving and memorable display.
In the fortnight leading up to the service, our cadets also dedicated their time to supporting the Royal British Legionโs Poppy Appeal, raising over ยฃ3,000 through their efforts. This outstanding contribution reflects both their commitment to community service and their deep understanding of the significance of remembrance.
Today, on Remembrance Day itself, the entire school joined together in solemn reflection. At 11.00, the school fell silent to honour the fallen. The service included contributions from senior prefects and cadets, as well as a poignant original poem written and performed by Aarav Jain (Year 10), whose words captured the spirit of remembrance with sincerity and grace. Aarav's poem is below.
We are immensely proud of all those who took part and of the respect, dignity and sense of duty they displayed in marking this important occasion.
Because of them, we may breath unshackled air,
because of them, we may speak our mind,
because of them, we may be ourselves.
We have every freedom one could wish for
and they paid the price.
Some gave a limb and some gave their life
but none gave what they defended.
Be it with cannon, sword, gun or missile
from the foothills of the Himalayas,
the plains and mountains of Europe,
the bitter cold of the Arctic circle,
the vast savvanahs, forests, deserts and deltas of Africa,
the islands of Asia, the highlands of Tibet,
to the skies over the world
and the seas around it.
From the boiling heat of summer to
the freezing depths of winter.
All while observing their comrades and friends
perish, in mind or body, before them.
Yet they refused to be daunted and they refused
to give in.
An unnecessary yet essential sacrifice
because senseless deeds are committed
by those that believe a difference
cannot be worked out.
And because of those that believe they
must grasp hold of a sliver of land for this or that
resource or simply to show their
dominance.
To undoubtedly overthrow any sense
of unity between humanity
to render themselves indomitable by others
and in control of all.
And the scars of conflict thus remain
in the highest peaks and the lowest seas.
But some fought for the existence of a
future in which their children would not
have to cower for the whim of one placed
in a heartless high seat.
And the service and sacrifice
made by these nameless,
faceless, countless and courageous people
and the cost they paid fighting
for liberty will stay eternal in memory.
Thus their cause will remain unforgotten,
for we shall remember.












