CHULMLEIGH College assembled on Tuesday, November 11 to remember all those who have lost their lives in armed conflict.

At 11am, everyone at the college fell silent for two minutes in quiet reflection, remembrance and respect. 750 pupils, their teachers and staff gathered together in the Sports Hall in silent solidarity.

Following an introduction from Mr Payne, Agnes Catling and Daniel Rhodes read a war poem, “My Boy Jack”, by Rudyard Kipling.

Year 7 pupil Hope Russell also read her own poem, written for the occasion. Mr Miners played the Last Post and later the Reveille to start and finish the two-minute silence.

Miss Russell’s poem, “Steps of Silence”, is as follows:

Beneath the poppies’ crimson sway,

We tread a path where brave hearts lay.

The journey long through mud and rain,

Each step a whisper, soft with pain.

They marched away with hope in eyes,

Through dawn-lit fields and twilight skies.

Their dreams were carried in the dust —

A sacrifice, entrusted to trust.

Yet here we stand with lighter stride,

Their memories our solemn guide.

Though tears may fall, we softly smile,

For peace is found within the mile.

So, on this day of quiet grace,

We honour those who faced the place

Where courage met its final call,

And gave their all, to save us all.