Children's cascade of poppies at Mansfield school to remember fallen soldiers

The staff and children at High Oakham Primary School on Nottingham Road have created the eye catching display to coincide with the Remembrance Day commemorations but also to make a connection with people during the recent coronavirus difficulties.

The artwork was part of lessons and activities related to Remembrance Day, war and the poppy symbol. All the children at the 450 pupil school got involved with the project which features around 1000 poppies.

Each class used a different medium and interpretation of the poppy design Some used paper plates to create the shape, whilst others coloured in a poppy template, others were made out of finger knitted wool. The children also used, pastels, wax crayon, balled up tissue paper, glitter, crayons, paint, oil pastels.

The display even included some ‘Purple Poppies’ to represent the animals who also lost their lives during war.

Headteacher Stephanie Astle said: “The children and staff have made a net of bright red poppies to show our respect and to remember those fallen soldiers who have lost their lives. The children loved being creative and knowing their artwork was going to be used an a big display at the front of school, it was very exciting!

“The net falls from our staff room and is filled with the beautiful handmade poppies, each one is unique, reflecting our understanding and awareness of how diverse and special our armed forces are and to represent those individuals who lost their lives fighting for our future.

"As a school we have 'life and learning values' which are embedded throughout school life and the community which ultimately steer our children to become adults who contribute, contribute to the local community, contribute to the wider world.

She added "We feel there where our school is located, High Oakham Primary School, being on the main Nottingham Road, that we have a responsibility to reach out and especially through this difficult time, make connections and continue to keep the community spirit alive.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.