Academy students honour WW1 soldiers and meet Prime Minister
Chris Prince
/ Categories: News
Two Stockport Academy students recently attended a special event to honour First World War (WW1) Victoria Cross recipients, and meet Prime Minister David Cameron and other high profile politicians.
The day was organised to remember those who were born overseas and received the Victoria Cross as a result of their actions in WW1. As part of a series of events and memorials to mark the centenary of WW1, commemorative paving stones are being laid for every winner of the award.
It took place at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire – a beautiful area with over 300 memorials spread across 150 acres of land.
After speeches from various dignitaries – including Mr Cameron – the latest Victoria Cross Commemorative Stones were revealed, followed by the playing of the last post, a two-minute silence and the laying of wreaths.
The students – Jennifer Walker and Shauna Hampton – were required to dress in their Cadets uniform, and later had the opportunity to speak to Mr Cameron and Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Eric Pickles.
“Mr Pickles told us he was very proud of the Police Cadets and that we were doing a good job,” said Shauna.
“He then took out his phone and asked if it was ok to get a selfie! That was something we didn’t expect.
“The day was a real eye-opener and really humbling to be in the company of so many brave war veterans. It’s something that will stay with us for the rest of our lives.”
There have been a series of activities across the Academy recently focusing on World War 1 and celebrating British Values, ranging from dance students putting together a contemporary piece based around the theme to students being invited to bring in their relatives’ medals and photographs.