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On Sunday the 11^th of November, to commemorate the centenary of the armistice signed that ended the First World War, Harris Academy Beckenham students came out in force to show their respect for those in the community who fought and died forus. Our students took part in the parade, laying a wreath as part of the ceremony.

We started at St. George’s Church, meandering our way down the High Street, towards the cenotaph. The mood was that of unity, everybody felt part of something truly poignant. The ceremony formally started when the parade reached the cenotaph. There were prayers, poems and hymns, to honour and remember the dead. Then it came to the two minutes silence. The Last Post echoed throughout the town, as the heads of all groups involved dipped in humility and respect. Silence fell as the last note rang out, punctuated by the rustle of the wind in the branches, and the distant cry of babies, who couldn’t understand the gravity of the situation. After this powerful display of respect, more prayers and the laying of the wreaths took place. Two of our students laid one for HABE. Lastly, we sang our national anthem, to show our continued unity and respect of one another.

One thing that struck me was the enthusiasm that our students had for the event. Many took part knowing full well that they would spend a chunk of their Sunday standing out in the cold, and potential rain, yet they all did so with rigour and passion, which filled me with so much pride to be a Harris Beckenham student.

Ultimately, this event was sombre and highly respectful. Our academy prides itself that we remember and honour the dead with such humility and respect, and that we teach our students the importance of being thankful to those who laid down their lives for our values: democracy, freedom, and liberty.

By Oscar, year 12 student.