Kingsley Remembers: Reflecting on Sacrifice and Service

This morning, the Kingsley School community gathered in reflection for our annual Remembrance Day service, a moving opportunity to come together and honour the lives lost in conflict and the legacy of peace they left behind.

The service opened with a heartfelt reading from our Head Girl and Head Boy, who shared a poignant poem that set the tone for a time of unity and remembrance. Their words were followed by a series of readings and prayers, including contributions in multiple languages, a reminder that war and sacrifice transcend borders, and that peace is a shared responsibility among nations.

Headteacher Mr Rob Pavis offered a powerful address, focusing on the deep sacrifice made by so many, often at such a young age. He reminded us that while life in North Devon can feel a million miles from the past and conflicts, the very beaches near our school were once used for World War II training exercises. Many of those who trained were not much older than our Sixth Formers. It was a poignant call to recognise both the scale of loss and the humanity behind the history.

As the final notes of the trumpet call echoed across the grounds, we stood in respectful silence, united in thought, gratitude, and remembrance.

The service concluded with a hauntingly beautiful performance of "Abide With Me" by the Kingsley brass band, leaving us all with a deep sense of reflection and resolve.

Kingsley remembers the fallen. We honour their memory through our silence, our unity, and our continued hope for a better world.