Commemorating VE Day at Bottisham Village College

At Bottisham Village College, we are proud to be commemorating Victory in Europe (VE) Day. A momentous occasion in British history that marks the end of the Second World War in Europe on 8 May 1945. This national event serves as a time of remembrance and reflection, honouring the extraordinary courage, resilience, and sacrifice of the wartime generation.

This year, our whole school community is engaging in thoughtful activities that highlight the importance of VE Day, both as a historical milestone and as a reminder of the peaceful, prosperous world that followed.

Each year group has taken part in special assemblies aimed at encouraging pupils to reflect on the significance of VE Day. These assemblies have focused not only on the sacrifices made by those who lived through the war, but also on the freedoms and stability we now enjoy because of their efforts. Through these reflections, our pupils are developing a deeper understanding of the human cost of conflict and the value of peace.

In form time, pupils have explored three carefully curated presentations that chart the key events of the Second World War: from the early years of 1939 to 1941, through the turning points of 1942 and 1943, and finally the closing years of 1944 to 1945. This historical context helps to ground their understanding of VE Day in the broader story of the war.

To connect the past with the personal, we have launched a school-wide competition inviting pupils to research and present what their family members may have experienced or contributed during the war. This encourages pupils to discover their personal links to history and to take pride in presenting their findings in creative and thoughtful ways.

Our library is also hosting a picture-based competition, inviting pupils to visually express their understanding and reflections on the war and VE Day. Whether through art, photography, or design, this initiative allows for a diverse range of interpretations and voices to be shared.

One particularly meaningful project involves our Year 8 pupils, who have been invited to visit a local care home to speak directly with residents who lived through the war. These intergenerational conversations offer pupils a rare opportunity to hear first-hand accounts and gain insight into what life was like during wartime. It also gives them a chance to discuss what VE Day means today, both personally and for the nation.

At Bottisham Village College, we believe that commemorating VE Day is more than just a history lesson; it is an act of respect and remembrance. It connects our pupils to a vital part of our national heritage and reminds us all of the value of peace, unity, and shared purpose.

We are Bottisham Village College, and we are proud to honour VE Day, not just as a date in history, but as a living legacy that continues to shape our world and our values.