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A Time for Reflection

Posted on: July 12th 2024

GSJzCa8bUAA00TLGSNJkwga4AAzCDLTwo weeks before the end of the summer term, 45 GCSE History students, along with Mr Eaton, Dr Lewis-Vidler, Mrs Stanley and Mr White, visited the battlefields of the First World War in Belgium and Northern France. We went not only to visit the sites of major events in the conflict but also to pay our respects and commemorate those who so bravely put their lives on the line. We visited many locations that students have learnt about in class and our guides were brilliant at taking us to places when men from Alton lost their lives and were buried, such as Hawthorn Ridge and Crater.

On the trip we visited many cemeteries and memorials of soldiers and it was extremely touching for us to hear a few of the personal stories of the people who have their final resting place abroad, so far from home. Particularly impactful were the large memorials including the Menin Gate, where we saw the Last Post ceremony take place on the first day, Thiepval Memorial to the missing of the Battle of the Somme and Tyne Cot cemetery, which we visited on our final day. It was an honour for us to be able to lay a wreath on behalf of the school. Each student placed their hand on a name of a missing soldier, to take their memory home and ensure that we will remember them.

As well as reinforcing classroom-based curriculum study, we also managed to fit in time for some more recreational activities as well on our trip. On the first day, students were able to visit shops selling famous Belgian chocolate, as well as having some time to explore the rebuilt city of Ypres. We arrived at our accommodation on Wednesday just in time to watch the European Football Championship semi-final victory for England together in the Hostel conference room. Students also took the opportunity to visit the duty-free shops whilst waiting for our shuttle to and from the European continent. All of our students conducted themselves in an exemplary manner and both our guides, as well as the coach driver, remarked on how impressed they were with their behaviour. All in all, it was a brilliant learning experience, as well as being fantastic fun for everyone involved!

“It was very tranquil at Tyne Cot when we placed our wreath to commemorate the dead.” Ed W

“It showed us the footsteps of the people that came before us, so we can prevent anything like this happening again. It brought it to reality.” Toby M

“I really enjoyed learning about what the people did and all the different places we went to.” Grace S

 

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Year 11 Prom: A Sparkling Send-Off
Posted on: 25/06/2025

Year 11 Prom: A Sparkling Send-Off

What an evening! On June 25th, Amery Hill School's Year 11 students celebrated the end of their five momentous years with an unforgettable Prom at the magnificent Audley's Wood Hotel. It truly was a magical occasion from start to finish, a fitting tribute to a group of students who have navigated their secondary education with such spirit and determination. The evening began with a dazzling red carpet reception, a spectacle in itself! It was truly magical. The red carpet arrivals were a spectacle, with students making grand entrances in everything from tractors to sports cars, reflecting their vibrant personalities. Dressed in their finest attire, everyone looked absolutely stunning, radiating pride and joy as they stepped out onto the red carpet to pose for photos and greet their friends (and not an untucked shirt in sight!). It set an incredible tone for the night, filled with laughter and anticipation. Inside the stunning marquee, the atmosphere was simply electric. The air buzzed with happy chatter and excitement as students, reunited, shared stories, and soaked in the final moments of their school journey together. The dance floor quickly became the heart of the celebration, packed with everyone on their feet, dancing their hearts out to a fantastic mix of tunes. The students enjoyed a delicious BBQ buffet and let's not forget the endless supply of ice cream and the nostalgic ferris wheel pick 'n' mix. Everyone was fueled up for a fantastic evening.  Speaking about the evening, Mrs Winch, Progress Leader, commented "Whether the students were dancing to the DJ or enjoying the staff band, it was a pleasure to see them all on the dance floor enjoying themselves and creating unforgettable memories together. Our very last time as a year group, united.  I think you showed us all how to party!"  With heartfelt goodbyes, it was truly a perfect finale to their time at Amery Hill, a night where friendships were celebrated and cherished memories were made. This Year 11 Prom will undoubtedly remain etched in the hearts of the students as a cherished memory of their school years. Amery Hill School is incredibly proud of all they have achieved, not just academically, but in how they've grown into such remarkable young individuals. They've navigated challenges, supported each other, and shown incredible resilience throughout their time at the school. As they now move on to their next exciting adventures – whether that's further education, apprenticeships, or embarking on new paths – all of us at Amery Hill wish them the very best of luck. The school knows they're destined for great things and can't wait to see the wonderful contributions they'll make in the world. Good luck, Year 11 – you've been brilliant! Prom 2025 Galleries - Click Here View Article