Oriel Remembers – Armistice Day

At 11:00, the entire school community—from Year 7 – 13 including teaching and operational staff—came together in a moment of unified silence for our annual Remembrance Service, marking Armistice Day. The collective stillness and shared sense of togetherness fostered an atmosphere of profound poignancy and significance is always present. 

On Monday morning, accompanied by the pulsating sound of drum, the school gathered respectfully in the main courtyard.  Wreaths were laid to honour the fallen.

Mr Stack, Headteacher began the proceedings with an introduction, followed by the poignant readings by our Year 13 students Holly who read ‘Alive with Poppies’ and Jules who read ‘For the Fallen’.

Before the stirring notes of The Last Post echoed, and the school fell silent to remember the fallen the student choir sang  ‘I Vow to Thee my Country’. The silence was then broken by the Reveille, transitioning into a further hymn sung by the choir ‘Jerusalem’. The service ending with the reading of the Kohima Epitaph by Mr Stack.

This ceremony remains an important event of our school year, bringing together over 1600 of the school community in a shared moment of stillness and reflection. The powerful symbolism and carefully chosen words make this a very memorable event, honouring the spirit of remembrance.

Lest we forget.