Over half term, 44 members of L5 visited the battlefields of the First World War in Belgium and France. They explored reconstructions of trench networks around the city of Ypres and visited the cemeteries and memorials associated with the battle of Passchendaele.

On behalf of the school, three pupils with relatives who died in the war laid a wreath at the Menin Gate. The group also spent a day visiting the Somme battlefield, learning why 1st July 1916 was the worst day in the British Army’s history, and seeing the crater left by one of the largest man-made explosions in history. It was particularly poignant to visit the graves of two ONs, Nigel Bavin and Daniel Watney, who lost their lives in the war.

Throughout, the group were blessed by sunny weather. Thanks to Dr Clark, Dr Boutemy, Mr Bateman and Mr Grant for accompanying the trip.