School helps elderly re-live wartime memories
Published Tuesday 15th November 11 in Council - news and information releases news
Staff and pupils at Priory School, Southend, went back in time for a special wartime project.
On Friday 11th November they celebrated VE Day, while also remembering the British and Allied soldiers who fought in both World Wars, and those still in active service around the world.
Members of the community, governors and Local Councillors were invited to join those at the school in Burr Hill Chase, Southend, in observing the two-minute silence at 11am.
On arrival, visitors were given ration books which they were able to exchange for tea and cake.
Elderly residents shared their wartime stories and visitors were able to view a wonderful display of work by the pupils, who studied World War II as part of a cross-curricular project, leading towards a Diploma in Creative Arts.
On departure, visitors were handed a ration pack for the week which included tea, bacon, egg, butter and 2 sugar cubes.
One elderly resident said: "What an amazing morning, I am so glad I came."
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Executive Councillor for Children and Learning, Councillor Mark Flewitt said: "This was a truly stirring and moving event, which brought young and old together in a very special way.
"I was honoured to have been invited to attend."
Head teacher of Priory School, Elizabeth Baines said: "Today was a wonderful opportunity for Priory to give something to the community, to remember those who have given us the existence that we now have and to show that our pupils have been learning about the bravery and determination of our country to be free from prejudice, discrimination and inequality."