Remembrance Assembly

King Edward VI Handsworth Grammar School for Boys – Remembrance Assembly

On Monday, 11th November 2024, King Edward VI Handsworth Grammar School for Boys held its annual Remembrance Assembly in Big School. We were honoured to welcome Nick Tipper, a former student who served in the armed forces, and Suri Ram, our Chair of Governors, to join us for this solemn occasion.

The Headteacher, Mr Johnson, led the act of remembrance and Mrs Harvey delivered a heartfelt address, sharing the story of one of her relatives and their experiences in the British Army, bringing a personal connection to the proceedings.

The assembly also paid tribute to the war memorials honouring the Old Boys of Handsworth Grammar School who fought and died in the wars. These young men, who once sat in the very hall where the Remembrance Assembly was taking place, shared the same aspirations, hopes, and dreams as the current students. Reflecting on their stories brought a poignant sense of continuity and connection, reminding everyone that the sacrifices of those who came before them were made so that future generations could gather in peace and unity. This powerful link between past and present deepened the meaning of the assembly and highlighted the enduring significance of remembrance within the school community.

Members of the Senior Prefect team played an active role in the assembly: Eshaan Prabhakar and Shrey Kapoor recited powerful poems, while Ravjot Singh and Manveer Ghatora laid wreaths at the stained glass window, a symbol of remembrance and sacrifice.

Year 7 students attended the assembly in person, while the rest of the school community joined via live stream from their form rooms. Towards the end of the assembly the Last Post was played followed by a two-minute silence observed in deep respect.

“At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.” – Laurence Binyon