Over half-term, fourteen St. Clare’s students went on an unforgettable journey to Ypres, Belgium with the History Department, immersing themselves in the history of World War I. This educational trip provided a profound insight into the realities of war, allowing students to engage with the past in a deeply meaningful way.
One of the most poignant moments of the visit was attending the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate in Ypres. Held every evening at 20:00, this solemn tribute honours the fallen soldiers of the Ypres Salient. The sound of the bugles echoing through the memorial created a reflective atmosphere, as a reminding of the immense sacrifices made over a century ago.
The trip also included a full tour of the Ypres Salient battlefields, where students visited important places like Hooge Crater. This location, once the scene of fierce battles, vividly illustrated the devastating impact of trench warfare. The visit to Poperinge Farm provided further insight into the daily lives of soldiers away from the front lines. Meanwhile, the Langemark Cemetery, one of the most significant German war cemeteries, served as a sobering reminder of the enormous human cost of the conflict.
A major highlight was the visit to Vimy Ridge, a site of great significance to Canada. The towering Canadian War Memorial stands as a powerful tribute to the bravery of Canadian forces who played a crucial role in one of the war’s most challenging offensives. Adjacent to this, the Ring of Remembrance offered a deeply moving experience, listing the names of over 500,000 soldiers from various nationalities, highlighting the shared losses endured across nations.
Further visits to cemeteries such as Brandhoek and Lijssenhoek reinforced the scale of human sacrifice. With many rows of gravestones, these graveyards show how terrible and deadly the war was. Walking among these memorials, students reflected on the past and gained a greater appreciation for the importance of remembrance and peace.
This trip was not merely an academic exercise; it was an emotional and eye-opening experience that deepened our St Clare’s students understanding of the war’s legacy. By standing on these historic grounds, they were able to connect with history on a personal level, ensuring that the lessons of the past are never forgotten.
Written by Mert – IB26 student