Blog - Tue 7

The day dawned cold but with blue skies. After a hearty breakfast, we began a series of craft activities. The first of these session saw the children making their own packed lunch, where all sorts of interesting combinations (such as salami and sweet corn) were blended and mixed in true European fusion style.

After that, Mrs LG ran a session of poppy decorating to create a beautiful commemorative wreath to leave at the Menin Gate. The children were also treated to an informative interactive chat by our château hosts which involved genuine WW1 artefacts.

After leaving the château, we crossed the border to Belgium, and first stop was the Langemark cemetery for fallen German soldiers. It was a time for quiet reflection as we viewed the stone plaques and the tombs of mass graves.

Then we went to the Menin Gate. This was the first year that Blue Coat children laid a wreath here and it was a moment of contemplation and gratitude.

After refuelling with lunch and a trip to the local chocolate shop (how the owners rubbed their hands with glee as they saw us approach!), we went to Tyne Cot cemetery for Commonwealth soldiers. This was followed by Passchendaele museum where children could see and experience first-hand various aspects of the Great War, including trenches, dugouts, uniforms and weapons.

The entire day was thought-provoking and leaves us feeling immensely grateful for everything we have.

We suspect that tomorrow will be less thought-provoking and more adrenaline-fuelled! Tales of our high jinx will appear tomorrow. Until then, à bientôt!

(With help from Joshua, Amar and Danny)