THEY SHALL NOT GROW OLD
Region remembers the fallen 100 years on
A DAY of remembrance activities helped children understand the sacrifices made by servicemen and women since the First World War.
Teachers at Joseph Swan Academy in Gateshead linked all their lessons to themes of remembrance and commemoration on yesterday, as the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War approached.
Guests from the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines, the Army, the Royal Artillery, the Military Intelligence Team and the Royal Fusiliers helped students to understand what conflict has been like in the century following what should have been the war to end all wars. A Spitfire MK1X, a Hawker Hurricane Plane and a Flying Flea reconnaissance plane visited the school, bringing history to life for the students.
In lessons, children studied subjects including the aftermath of the First World War on British society, and also examined topics including the roles of con-
tentious objectors, and why some people choose to wear white poppies. The day ended with a solemn service of remembrance.
Headteacher Heather Scott said: “Remembrance is part of modern British life, culture and heritage. We do these workshops, have these installations including planes and exhibitions and invite military personnel including veterans and currently serving military to help our students truly understand remembrance and what actually is the ultimate sacrifice.
“We should never and can never forget. We also must ensure young people today both know and understand as the custodians of the future. We ensure that as an academy community we remember all those who have given the ultimate sacrifice, so we can have the freedoms we have today. We will remember them.”
A remembrance service organised by the Durham Light Infantry Association was also held at Saltwell Park in Gateshead yesterday.