‘Heading Home’ 100 years on as we pause to remember

For the commemoration of the 100th Remembrance of Armistice it seemed that the whole nation paused in one way or another as the need for peace seems more relevant than ever. Reed’s held its own event on Friday 9th November with the whole school present for the Last Post and a minute’s silence in front of the installation outside the Day Pupil Centre appropriately titled ‘Heading Home’ - silhouettes of those who served walk past the poppy crosses of the fallen on their way home. Head of History, Adam Waller, lead inspirational reflections all week in chapel. Surrounded by modern laser-cut figures of WW1 soldiers and paper Doves of Peace, pupils were helped to see and feel the impact of ‘The Great War’ on Old Reedonians and the cost of their service and sacrifice they made.

Commemorations continued over the weekend as a strong Cadet Contingent lead the parade through Cobham High Street with our own Corps of Drums sounding out the marching pace. Anna Gray held the CCF flag for the colour guard into St Andrew’s Church where the Reed’s School wreath joined many others from the area. 

Sunday evening saw the cadets in action again for a Remembrance Service which had the community participation at its core as colour guard, readers, trumpeters and choir joined together to create a powerful moment of reflection. The silhouettes, doves and candles set the tone for a solemn and important moment. As we stood for the Headmaster’s reading of the names of Old Reedonians, the length impressed upon us all just how many were willing to give of their lives which were already marked by loss. David Bellchamber, Chairman of the Cobham branch of the Royal British Legion, gave the address and we were encouraged to reflect on God’s blessing of peace and the necessity of sacrifice to make and sustain it.’

Rev. Andrew Winter, School Chaplain