This morning we gathered as a School community to remember all those lives lost in war and conflict, those whose lives continue to be affected by war, and to remember the former students and staff of Sir Thomas Rich’s who gave up their tomorrows so we might have our todays.

Students who are part of the Cadet Forces and Scouts carried the flag, and Martha in Year 13 played the Last Post and Reveille beautifully. The School Captains laid the wreath at the School War Memorial, and pupils and staff left the tennis courts accompanied by Abide With Me, played by the Brass Ensemble.

At the close of the service, Headteacher Mr Lynch led the School in prayer:

“As a school community, we pray for reconciliation between nations, so that all people may live together, in freedom, justice and peace.

“We pray for all who, in bereavement, disability and pain, continue to suffer the consequences of fighting around the world.

“We remember with thanksgiving and sorrow those whose lives, in world wars and conflicts past and present, have been given and taken away.”

Mr Lynch ended with the following words:

“In the same way that we strive to celebrate each other’s differences, and to look after each other as Richians of this school each and every day, let us also seek to do the same as citizens of this country, and as people of our world, both now and in the future.”