Honouring Remembrance Day: A Tradition of Reflection and Respect

The development of traditions within a school plays a vital role in shaping its culture, and our annual Remembrance Day assembly is a powerful example of this. Held on November 11th, the assembly has grown in significance year after year, evolving into a meaningful occasion for both students and staff.

During the assembly, students reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for the values we hold dear today—freedom, peace, and acceptance. It is an opportunity to remember our soldiers and consider how we, as custodians of the ANZAC spirit, can contribute to making the world a better and more peaceful place.

The respect and attentiveness demonstrated by our students throughout the service was truly moving. Their behaviour reflected a deep understanding of the importance of this day and a genuine respect for those who have served.

We are especially grateful to Lieutenant Oscar Brown from the Army’s 9th Combat Service Support Battalion and to Mr. Michael Grech, a Vietnam War veteran, for reading the Ode of Remembrance. Their presence added a profound depth to the ceremony.

A heartfelt thank you also goes to the students from both schools who performed the songs Lest We Forget and The Last Anzac so beautifully. We appreciate the dedication of Brayden, Meagan, and Lea for guiding the students through their rehearsals. Additionally, we would like to acknowledge Chloe and her dancers, who performed Can You Hear Australian Heroes Marching with grace and elegance, as well as our defence students, who participated in laying wreaths and raising the flag.

I would also like to give special mention to our defence students who took on the important roles of reading poetry and MCing the ceremony. Their enthusiasm and pride in representing their parents were evident, and their efforts made the event all the more meaningful.

It was heartwarming to observe some of our students working with our Sustainability teacher in our recently redeveloped ANZAC Memorial Garden, taking pride in the rocks they had painted. This space will continue to foster engagement, reflection and remembrance for our school community.

In an uncertain world, occasions like these offer a comforting reminder of the importance of peace, the sacrifices made for Australia’s security, and our collective commitment to never forget.

Thank you

Deb Thompson

DSM (Defence School Mentor)