Students and colleagues from Central Saint Michael’s Sixth Form gathered today at Sandwell College to mark Armistice Day.
The student-led event began with uniformed Public Services students leading a remembrance parade through the college to commemorate the memory of fallen soldiers.
CEO and Principal of The Sandwell Colleges, Lisa Capper MBE, welcomed special guests to the event, including Deputy Lieutenant Gurpreet Bhatia.
Our student Zayaan gave a moving reading of For the Fallen, setting a powerful tone of remembrance. Guests also heard from History lecturer Dr David Craik, who paid tribute to former college Mathematics lecturer Private William Candlin who died in the First World War.
A poignant video portrayal of college staff’s own relatives and ancestors who bravely gave their sacrifice in battle was also shown.
To mark the occasion, Central Saint Michael’s students created stunning poppy field artwork, which will remain on display in reception as a permanent memorial — a visual symbol of gratitude and respect for all who served.
The traditional two-minute silence was followed by the laying of wreaths, many of which had been made across the college.
Handmade red poppies were released to flutter down from the atrium bridges as the college community paused and reflected on the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces.
CEO and Principal, Lisa Capper MBE, said: “Our Remembrance event holds a special place in our College calendar. For many weeks, learners have been busy crafting materials, rehearsing the parade and writing poetry for the event and the contributions today were felt throughout. We thank our special guests, learners and colleagues for joining us and supporting the event as we honour fallen war heroes and all those who have given their lives for us.”
Live streaming of the remembrance event enabled all of The Sandwell Colleges learners and colleagues to participate, including Central Saint Michael’s Sixth Form College and Cadbury Sixth Form College.
