Held on 11th November, the Poppy Drop is a cherished tradition that allows students and staff to honour the sacrifices of those who served in the armed forces.
The atrium was filled with students from all year groups, along with staff and special guests, including student cadets and the heads of the prefectural board. Student cadets, dressed in uniform, stood in solidarity with their peers, lending a sense of respect and solemnity to the occasion.
During the service, which was led by our Principal Mrs McCann and Assistant Principal Ms Stirling, students stood in silence on the stairs and balconies around the atrium, each holding a poppy, which displayed a personal message of reflection, expressing gratitude and sharing thoughts of remembrance.
After Mr Bocock played The Last Post following an impeccably-observed 2-minute silence, Mrs McCann dropped her poppy, initiating the release of hundreds of poppies from the students on the upper floors, creating a powerful visual tribute.
After the poppies were dropped, students from Years 7 and 8 carefully gathered them to be used to create a commemorative display within the school. The event concluded with a moment of silence, allowing students and staff alike to reflect on the importance of remembrance.
Ms Stirling praised the students for their respectful conduct, saying: “The Poppy Drop showcases our students at their very best. It is a moving tribute that brings us all together to honour those who have served, and I’m so proud of how our students participated with such respect and sincerity.”