At XP, Remembrance is about more than looking back at the past. It is an opportunity for our community to come together, recognise the sacrifices made by others and reflect on the people and animals whose lives have been affected by conflict. This year, our focus was on inclusion, diversity and the message that Remembrance is for everyone.

Across XP School and XP East, students took part in a range of activities to deepen their understanding of Remembrance and explore the different stories that deserve to be remembered.

Exploring the stories behind Remembrance

Each year group explored a different perspective on service and sacrifice within the British Armed Forces. Year 7 learned about the contribution of Sikh soldiers, while Year 8 explored the history of Black servicemen and women. Year 9 focused on the changing roles of women in the Armed Forces, and Year 10 developed their understanding of Black military history, considering how representation has changed over time. Year 11 explored LGBTQ+ voices and experiences within the Armed Forces, including the significance of the changes in the law in 2000.

Through this learning, students recognised that the history of conflict is made up of many different experiences and that there are stories which deserve greater recognition.

Creating a shared symbol of remembrance

One of the most meaningful projects this year was the creation of a collaborative Remembrance sculpture.

Students were invited to consider the question: Who or what would you like your poppy to remember?

Using a handmade wire sculpture, students created individual poppies to add to the sculpture. Each represented an act of remembrance, with students encouraged to include a personal message, name, poem or dedication.

Together, these contributions transformed the figure into a shared expression of appreciation, compassion and hope for peace. Students also explored the meanings behind different coloured poppies, including the purple poppy, remembering animals who have served in war; the black poppy, recognising the contributions of Black, African and Caribbean communities; and the white poppy, representing peace.

Remembering our local history

Remembrance also provided an opportunity to connect national history with our own local community. Students explored the story of the 324 Battery, 94th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, developing their understanding of the experiences of those connected to our local area.

We shared the 2026 National Literacy Trust and Royal British Legion Remembrance Assembly. This year’s assembly explored the importance of community, featuring poetry and contributions from veterans, serving members of the Armed Forces and young people. It also provided an opportunity to reflect together and take part in the Two-Minute Silence to mark the Armistice.

Remembrance is for everyone

At XP, we want our students to understand not only the events of the past, but also the human experiences behind them. Through exploring different perspectives, celebrating overlooked contributions and creating something together, our students have reflected on the importance of remembering with empathy, understanding and compassion.

Our Remembrance sculpture stands as a lasting reminder of this shared commitment: remembering those who served, those who sacrificed, and those whose stories deserve to be heard.