Remembrance Day Service 2024

Yesterday, our community gathered to observe Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the lives lost in wars, the sacrifices made by our service members, and the ongoing legacy of those who serve in defense of our freedoms. It was a day of reflection, respect, and unity.

It was a crisp Autumnal day and we welcomed former Governors, staff and pupils to remember those that fell in a service for Remembrance. As they joined together in the warmth of the Headmaster's study, they chatted over light refreshments before heading out to the playground to join the school in a moment of reflection. 

Reverend Phil Jackson spoke of how we we all stand united in a shared commitment to never forget the sacrifices that these brave men and women made. He reminded us of the cost of war, not just in lives lost, but in the ripples it sends through families, communities, and nations. Our guests, some wearing medals proudly on their chests, stood side by side with the younger generation. In the crowd of staff and students, many wore poppies, the symbol of remembrance that connects us to the soldiers who fought, bled, and died in battles far from home. Two of our students stood up and recited beautifully a poem and a reading to those before them before the Last Post was played from the balcony, its end signalling the beginning of the two minute silence. 

The RGS Polyphony sang 'Abide with Me' before the CCF marched to lay the second of our wreaths at the Harrison Memorial. The first having been laid earlier at the shrine of Remembrance outside the Old Library, marking Reigatians that fell during the First World War. 

After the ceremony, we joined together in the Wright Gallery, where we shared stories, exchanged quiet conversations, and passed around mince pies and sherry, feeling the deep connection that comes when a community pauses to honor its shared history.

The Headmaster Shaun Fenton welcomed our guests back under these sombre but respectful conditions and reminded everyone that we will never forget. RGS Foundation Director Jonny Hylton (RGS '99) took a brief moment to thank everyone for coming and invited our guests to join us in the final wreath laying at the memorial garden. 

Reverend Phil Jackson invited everyone to stand in silent prayer before the reading of France 1914, written by a former student, was read eloquently by a current student. We want to thank Stephen Vinall (RGS '88) for joining us to today to read the Act of Remembrance and laying this final wreath to remember those that fought in times of conflict. Stephen, a veteran himself, was touched to be asked to return to the school to honour such a poignant tradition. 

Though the day has now passed, the feelings of respect and unity that we shared yesterday remain. Remembrance Day is more than a date on a calendar; it is a time for us to come together, reflect on our collective history, and renew our commitment to a future where peace and understanding prevail.

We will remember them.

Event photos