Mrs Koiston's Assembly: Why do we remember?

In today’s assembly, we explored our big question. Why do we remember, and how can we say thank you?

With help from the Royal British Legion, we learnt about the Royal Navy, the British Army and the Royal Air Force. We talked about how the Armed Forces are a whole community that includes people serving today, veterans who served in the past, and the families and friends who support them.

We heard about Zane, who worked as a cook on a Royal Navy submarine. Imagine cooking dinner deep under the sea! Zane explained that everyone on board relied on one another. As well as cooking for his team, he learnt first aid so he could help in an emergency. These days, he runs marathons to help other veterans.

We talked about why we take time during Remembrance to think about people who have served and those who have lost their lives in wars and conflicts. We also thought about the different ways people choose to remember. Some wear a red poppy, some draw a picture or write a poem, and some spend two minutes quietly thinking about others.

Zane’s message to the children was simple. “Be kind, be brave, and look out for each other.” We thought about what that might look like at Sidlesham, from noticing when someone needs a friend to having the confidence to ask an adult for help when someone is hurt or upset.

Our mission this week is to look out for someone and find one small way to help them.

You might like to ask your child what they remember about Zane’s story and how they would choose to say thank you.

Growing together in ambition, confidence and kindness.