My thoughts often turn to my grandparents and their generation, and the belief and commitment they demonstrated over a sustained period in what one can only imagine were the most testing times. I feel lucky that my great-grandfather, member of the 9^th Royal Scots, survived the Great War, even more so because he was awarded a Military Cross for exemplary gallantry, something which must have put his life at risk, but also safe in the knowledge he was helping others.

I also consider the impact the First World War had on my family and its destiny. Prior to the outbreak of the First World War, my great great aunt, who I knew well until she died at the age of 100 (and a half!), was engaged to a young man who volunteered to join the Army. He crossed the Channel and joined the masses of immensely brave men fighting on the front line in the trenches; sadly, he was struck by a mortar and perished.

My great great aunt, an extremely loyal and heartbroken woman, never married following his death, which I find a particularly endearing, but equally sad; I often wonder of the what ifs of that war and the vast and far-reaching impact it had on the nation and the destiny of families.

In memory of all who have fought, and especially to those who did not make it home, I wanted to honour their bravery with a simple installation in the days preceding Remembrance Sunday.  In collaboration with the Pre-Prep, each boy in Year R to 2 has made a poppy from a discarded plastic bottle.  Aside from D&T theme, the project draws on many strands, incorporating the reuse of waste, whilst also focussing the young minds on the historical significance of Armistice Day. I hope those that are able, will have a chance to appreciate the work of the boys and enjoy what is a modest, but poignant tribute to the sacrifice made by so many; we will remember them.

Alex Armstrong
Head of D&T