Lest We Forget: Remembrance Day 2025 at All Girls Yorkshire School
North Yorkshire School, Queen Mary’s, Commemorates Remembrance Day 2025 with a Remembrance Service, Remembrance Climb, and the Laying of Poppies
The service began with a solemn and dignified march led by CCF participants, Bella N and Bella S, setting the tone for a morning of reflection. The girls were remarkable in their highly-professional march – a true shining example of female leadership and responsibility at Queen Mary’s.
This was followed by heartfelt readings from The Gospel according to St Matthew and the poignant poem In Flanders Fields by John McCrae.
The Chaplain spoke about the symbolism of the poppy. Then, every pupil and staff member placed their own poppy on the staircase of The Great Hall, accompanied by the choir’s beautiful performance of a selection of anthems.
Together, we remembered the crew of the Halifax Bomber LL505, which crashed at Topcliffe, before pausing to hear Cpt Major Cook deliver the traditional Remembrance Service liturgy. Matilda’s moving performance of the Last Post on the trumpet led into a two-minute silence, observed with deep respect.
Following the silence, the Headmistress read the Pledge, and the Chaplain led both a Remembrance Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer. This led into a heartfelt rendition of the National Anthem by all in attendance. The service concluded with the Chaplain’s blessing, after which everyone departed the hall quietly, reflecting on the importance of remembrance, with gratitude to all who served.
Our Girls’ School Remembrance Service: Captured in Images with Choir Singing Audio
Climbing in Remembrance: Year 11 Pupils Hike to the Top of Swirl How Fell
A poignant way to remember the fallen on Remembrance Day 2025
In driving rain and swirling mist, our dedicated group of Year 11 girls, accompanied by Mrs Strawbridge (Assistant Head), Mr Burn (Head of Adventure), and, of course, Kruger the dog, undertook a challenging climb to the summit of Swirl How Fell in the Lake District as an act of remembrance.
The journey was both physical and symbolic – a steady ascent through cloud and rain, mirroring the endurance, courage, and unity shown by those who served before us. Despite the weather, spirits remained high, as the group reflected quietly on the significance of their climb and the history that lay beneath their feet.
Upon reaching the Moore Memorial, a cross which marks the poignant site of a Halifax bomber crash, the group gathered to lay a wreath and pay their respects to the crew who lost their lives.
It was a powerful and humbling experience. A moment to pause, remember, and give thanks – reminding all involved that remembrance endures not only in ceremony, but also in action and reflection.
One parent commented that,
“I’m so impressed with your grit and determination girls! The weather was against you, but what a way to remember and show your respects.”
North Yorkshire School Lays Poppies for Remembrance
Back at Queen Mary’s School, a group of pupils gathered thoughtfully in the lawn outside of the Hall in Baldersby Park to plant poppies beneath the Remembrance Cross. Each poppy was placed carefully into the ground, creating a striking sea of red against the bright green grass, and in stark contrast to the cross.
The girls worked quietly and respectfully, aware of the significance of their actions and the generations they were honouring. As the final poppy was planted, the Remembrance Cross stood surrounded by a vivid symbol of gratitude and hope – a gentle yet powerful reminder of those who gave their lives in service and of the importance of remembrance within our school community.
