12 Nov Remembrance Service 2026
Our school community came together on Friday 6th November for a poignant and moving Remembrance Service led by S3 (Yr 5), as staff, parents and visitors took time to reflect on the sacrifices made by service men and women who have given their lives in the service of our country.
The service provided a meaningful opportunity for our children to understand the importance of Remembrance, not only through the history of the two World Wars and subsequent conflicts, but also through the personal stories and connections that bring this history closer to home. We were particularly proud to recognise the links within our school community commemorating the Lost Boys, past pupils of Merton Court, to the fallen service men and women within the families of S3, reminding us that behind every name is a family, a story and a lasting legacy.
An important part of the service was remembering and honouring the RAF and the life of F.O. Roger Coulston, whose fighter jet was intentionally and heroically guided away from the busy Sidcup High Street and crashed in Merton Court fields in 1956, his story gave the children a personal insight into the courage, dedication and sacrifice of a man who served. We were particularly honoured to have the Coulston Family and some past pupil eyewitnesses to the crash join us for the ceremony and share a few words as a plaque was unveiled in his honour.
The service concluded with the laying of wreaths, followed by the two-minute silence. It was a special moment of reflection, respect and gratitude, as the whole school stood together to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
We are incredibly proud of the maturity, respect and thoughtfulness shown by our children throughout the service. The way they led the service was a fitting tribute to the generations who have served and sacrificed so much.
Lest we forget.
