Pupils, staff and the wider Gordon’s community are taking part in meaningful acts of remembrance across Aberdeenshire this fortnight. 

In the Junior School, some of our Primary 7 pupils took a leading role in guiding their younger peers through the significance of the day. They shared thoughtful readings and poems that reflected themes of sacrifice, courage, and peace, encouraging everyone to think about the lives impacted and the reasons why we remember. Some shared stories about family members who experienced World War I and World War II. At the heart of the assembly was a powerful two-minute silence, in which the entire school paused together, creating a moment of shared respect and reflection.

Andrew F (Primary 7) piped at the Gordon Highlanders Museum on Monday 11th November following their two minute silence at 11 am, where members of the local community gathered to pay their respects. He proudly wore his King’s Coronation Medal and spoke to the BBC about being the youngest recipient of this award in Scotland.

Mrs Tulloch, Head of Junior School, shared: “Reflecting on Remembrance Day is essential for understanding our history, fostering gratitude and ensuring that the lessons of the past can guide our future to a more peaceful world. I am incredibly proud of how all of our pupils in the Junior School engaged with the assembly.”

Senior pupils have been attending assemblies and laying wreaths at our war memorial. School Captains, Vice Captains and Gordonian Student Leaders, led the S1-S3 and S4-S6 assemblies, where they shared the meaning of remembrance, ways in which we can pay tribute, and educated their peers about former pupils who sadly lost their lives in war. 

Mrs Smith, Head of Senior School, commented: “Remembrance Assemblies provide a moment to stop and reflect, not only on those who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars, but on everyone around the world affected by ongoing conflict. I am always proud of the respectful behaviour of our Senior Pupils during Remembrance and this year was no exception.”

Junior and Senior School pupils have also been selling poppies in aid of Poppy Scotland who provide support for current and former members of the Armed Forces, as well as their families.

On Sunday, 10th November, the RGC Pipe Band performed alongside the Banchory and District Pipe Band at the Banchory Remembrance Day parade in support of the Royal British Legion, leading a procession of veterans, army cadets and air cadets. 

The RGC Combined Cadet Force will pay their respects during the annual CCF Remembrance Service on Tuesday, 12th November, alongside pupils, staff, former pupils, and invited guests.