Belgium Trip

Just before Easter, ten of our Year 7 students had the unique opportunity to visit Belgium on a thought-provoking history trip. Travelling alongside Year 6 pupils from The Leigh Academy Dartford, we set off early in the morning by coach, taking the ferry across to Calais for a day of learning and remembrance.

Throughout the trip, we were guided by a knowledgeable local councillor, who regularly leads educational visits to the World War I cemeteries. His insight and storytelling brought each site to life, helping students to connect with the history and individuals behind the memorials.

As we journeyed through the former Western Front, students visited the graves of several remarkable individuals. These included Captain Noel Chavasse, one of only three people ever awarded the Victoria Cross twice; Valentine Joe Strudwick, a soldier tragically killed at just 15 years old; and Nellie Spindler, a British nurse buried among the soldiers she served.

Students from each of our four colleges were also given the opportunity to place memorial crosses at selected graves, paying tribute to those who served. Later in the afternoon they even had the chance to walk through genuine sections of WW1 trenches which they thoroughly enjoyed.

As the sun came out in the evening, we visited the vast Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world. The rows of white headstones, many bearing no name, left a lasting impression.

Our final destination was the historic town of Ypres, where we walked through the beautiful main square before gathering at the Menin Gate. The students respectfully laid a wreath beneath the monument, which commemorates over 54,000 missing soldiers of the Ypres Salient.

Throughout the trip, our students conducted themselves with maturity, empathy, and genuine interest. They represented the school superbly and engaged fully with the experiences. We returned late that night, tired but inspired. Thanks to Leigh Academy Dartford for including us and hopefully it is a trip we shall repeat!

Author:

Mr Yeates - Teacher of History