Beatrix Potter students deeply moved by visit to Newfoundland

One could not have imagined what started in 2003 would result in the arrival in Newfoundland in 2018 of children, parents, teachers and friends of the school. One cannot explain the significance of this trip or describe in adequate words the impact it had on Newfoundland and on Beatrix Potter.

The Royal Newfoundland Regimental association with Ken Gatehouse and Michelle Gatehouse leading, backed up by the support of a range of individuals, the Regiment and its Regimental Association, the City of St John’s and its Department of cultural affairs and Government House created a program that allowed us to experience just how important the loss of the young men of Newfoundland in the Great War is. Our own research has allowed us a glimpse not only of their bravery in war but their own short lives in Newfoundland. As my pupils observe their ages they reflect on how it could have easily been members of their own family.

Meeting the families of some of these soldiers was not only magical but incredibly emotional. Tears and laughter were equally matched as we viewed pictures and documents. It was an honour and a privilege to be able to share with them their stories.

Our children were stunned by the impact their presence had at various events, to be thanked for caring and to be praised for their concern was overwhelming. To march through St John’s to the National War Memorial was both incredible for us but equally a very moving experience.

Although we realize the importance of the regiment we had no idea it meant so much too so many, it reinforced the schools desire for this bonding to continue. These children move on but leave a legacy for the next pupils at Beatrix Potter to continue.

As we left we were no longer just British, but British Newfoundlanders with two communities, ours and yours.

Thank you.

Steph Neale

Headteacher, Beatrix Potter Primary School,

London, U.K.