Honouring Service and Sacrifice

THIS YEAR, WE MARKED REMEMBRANCE DAY 2025 WITH A SERIES OF POIGNANT EVENTS THAT BROUGHT TOGETHER STUDENTS, STAFF, AND MEMBERS OF THE WIDER COMMUNITY TO HONOUR THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED AND SACRIFICED IN CONFLICT.

The commemorations began on Friday, 7th November, with the Combined Cadet Forces (CCF) Remembrance Day Service, held in the spirit of the historic drumhead service, which featured honoured guests, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne & Wear, Ms Lucy Winskell OBE, and Naval Regional Commander, Commodore Thomas Knowles.  

Originating from battlefield necessity, drumhead services were conducted using regimental drums as altars, symbolising unity and reflection amidst adversity. This years' service featured the Royal Navy Section Bass Drum and snare drums loaned by the Northumberland Fusiliers, reinforcing the school’s strong military affiliations. 

Addressing attendees, CCF cadets reflected on the legacy of former RGS students who served in conflicts spanning five centuries - from the Anglo-Spanish War to modern operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their words reminded all present of the enduring importance of remembrance in a world still marked by instability. 

Year 12 CCF cadet Sarrah K said: “Remembrance honours those who serve or have served to defend our democratic freedoms and way of life. At its core, the act of Remembrance is simple, brief, and non-religious. It unites across faiths, cultures and backgrounds to remember the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces community." 

On Sunday, 9th November, members of the RGS Combined Cadet Force proudly participated in the Newcastle Remembrance Day Parade, joining veterans, civic leaders, and fellow cadets in a public act of remembrance that underscored the school’s commitment to service and community. 

The RGS commemorations culminated on Tuesday, 11th November, with our Remembrance Day assembly. Staff, students, and members of our Old Novocastrian community - including Old Novo Brigadier Bibek Ben Banerjee KHS QVRM DL VR, Head of the Army Medical Services Reserves - gathered for a reflective ceremony. The assembly featured moving musical tributes and a poignant two-minute silence, honouring those who have served and sacrificed. 

Speaking after the assembly, Mr Stanford, Headmaster of RGS Newcastle, said: “Remembrance is not only about honouring the past - it is about educating the present and inspiring the future. I am proud of how our students have embraced this tradition with dignity, empathy and thoughtfulness. Their participation reflects the values we hold dear at RGS.”

This year, the RGS Roll of Honour was brought to life in the Main Hall, where students could read the individual stories of former students who gave their lives in service - each of whom are commemorated on the school’s Memorial Organ.

Their stories were displayed on the hall's pews, accompanied by banners that added a powerful visual tribute to their legacy. Click here to learn more about our fallen ONs represented on our digital Roll of Honour. 

This year’s events served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by generations past and present, and the importance of continuing to reflect, remember and reaffirm our shared values of courage, service and peace. 

Lest we forget.