Chulmleigh College has held a solemn event in remembrance to mark Armistice Day

All at Chulmleigh College assembled at 11am today (Tuesday, November 11) to remember all those that have lost their lives in armed conflict as communities, schools and businesses across the nation did the same.

At 11am everyone at the College fell silent for two minutes in quiet reflection, remembrance and respect.  

All 750 pupils, their teachers and school staff gathered together in the Sports Hall in silent solidarity.  Following an introduction from headteacher Neil Payne, Agnes Catling and Daniel Rhodes read a war poem, My Boy Jack by Rudyard Kipling. 

Above: Chulmleigh College students Agnes Catling, head girl and Daniel Rhodes, deputy head boy, speaking at the school assembly on Armistice Day. Credit: Chulmleigh College

Year 7 pupil Hope Russell also read her own poem, written for the occasion and which you can read below. Music teacher Richard Miners played the traditional Last Post and later the Reveille to start and finish the two minute silence.

Steps of Silence, by Chulmleigh year 7 student Hope Russell

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.