Stoke on Trent College holds special event to remember war heroes

Students, staff and partners gathered at Stoke on Trent College this morning [Friday, November 11, 2022] to mark Armistice Day.

The College held its annual Remembrance Event, which was led by students and included a parade by Public Service students and the laying of creative wreaths and crosses made by the students. The event is a neutral all-faith/no-faith event and provides an opportunity to reflect and remember events that have impacted on our futures. The event was also live-streamed to local schools, care homes and other community establishments in order that they could participate by watching via YouTube.

This year’s event included a special focus on individual experiences of loss and celebration, reflection on the Pandemic and on Her Majesty the Queen. During the event current students recited poems they had written on what Remembrance means to them. The event also included a special message of Remembrance from Reverend Geoffrey Eze before attendees observed two minutes of silence at 11am.

Lisa Capper MBE, Principal and Chief Executive at Stoke on Trent College, said:

“Our annual Remembrance Event is a special date in the College calendar for students, staff, VIP partners and the wider community. It is important for us to come together as a college community, to say thank you to all of our public services and especially the fallen war heroes – and particularly those who were previous students of the College to ensure they are not forgotten.”

The Remembrance Event concludes a week of dedicated learning and reflection activities at Stoke on Trent College.  During the week students from a variety of subject areas have taken part in a range of activities including a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum, home to almost 400 thought provoking memorials. Students attending the visit were able to reflect and appreciate their representation across society.

Reverend Geoffrey Eze visited the National Memorial Arboretum with the students and commented:

“Students were mesmerised by the space at the National Memorial as they engaged with the living expanse, punctuated by the immoveable memorials. They were moved to reflect and respond, with a maturity and a dignity, that betrayed their years, but highlighted their tutoring. A day to not forget, under the blanket of a clear blue sky and a carpet of dead and dying leaves, the students connected with the past and allowed it to pierce their present.”