Honouring Heroes: Pool Academy Marks Remembrance Day with Heartfelt Assemblies

Students and staff honour veterans with silence and lessons on sacrifice

Pool Academy, a part of Athena Learning Trust, came together today (11th November) to mark Remembrance Day, holding a two-minute silence at 11 o’clock to honour those who served in the armed forces. This moment of reflection was one part of a broader programme at the school aimed at instilling a sense of history, respect, and appreciation among students.

Assemblies Highlight Lessons from D-Day

In the lead-up to today’s observance, students across all year groups participated in assemblies designed to teach them about the impacts of war and the importance of peace. These assemblies, held last week, focused on pivotal moments from World War II, including the D-Day landings. Students learned that on this historic day, 7,000 ships, 2,000 aircraft, 800 gliders, and 160,000 personnel travelled from England to the beaches of Normandy.

Additionally, a local connection to the D-Day events was highlighted: Trebah Beach near Falmouth served as one of the embarkation points for troops and equipment bound for Normandy. Inspired by these stories, students were encouraged to think about different ways to remember veterans, from wearing a poppy to creating a memorial artwork or visiting a remembrance site.

Cadets Represent Pool Academy at Community Events

Beyond school activities, three students who serve as cadets with Air Squadron 147 Camborne participated in local Remembrance services. Cadet Endean was chosen to deliver a reading, while Cadet Smeeth and Cadet Carter laid crosses at ceremonies in Camborne and Treslothan Church. The cadets also sold poppies at Camborne Tesco over the past three weeks, contributing to remembrance efforts in the wider community.

Principal Nick Ward Reflects on the Day

Nick Ward, Principal of Pool Academy, emphasised the significance of Remembrance Day for the school community, stating, “Remembrance Day is a chance for everyone to reflect on the courage and selflessness of those who have served in the armed forces. For our students, it’s also an opportunity to learn about history and honour those who sacrificed their lives, while reflecting on the role of the armed forces today. I am so proud of how our students and staff came together to show their respect.”

A Focus on Core Values and Safety

Pool Academy’s approach to Remembrance Day aligns with the school’s core values of aspiration, belonging, and respect, which are woven into the students’ experience. Ofsted inspectors have noted the positive atmosphere at the school, where students feel safe and benefit from strong pastoral support. Pool Academy aims to create a welcoming environment, with morning greetings helping students start their day on a positive note and quiet, calm classrooms designed for focused learning.