Tuxford Academy Students Support Royal British Legion

6 November 2015

Tuxford Academy Students support Royal British Legion.

Local artist Kenny Roach (West Street Galleries, Retford) recently visited Tuxford Academy to share his Artwork installation - ‘The Poppy Tree’ with students, and members of the Royal British Legion.

‘The Poppy Tree’ was first created by moulding unwanted vinyl records and has since become a simple yet beautiful symbol of remembrance. The artwork has made several public appearances and is currently being displayed in the ‘Memorial Garden’ at Tuxford Academy.

The poppies enhance the garden - which is used by teachers and students for quiet reflection time - adding colour and meaning at this time of commemoration.

Inspired by the art work, students in Miss Hallam’s tutor group - Willow College have spent a year of form time to hand craft over 200 poppies. They’ve been made from pieces of pre and randomly cut felt, curtain, a red scarf and wool. All with a safety pin and a button. The poppies have been sold throughout the Academy with all proceeds donated to the Royal British Legion.

Claire Hallam, Form Tutor said

“The entire form has been involved; both boys and girls have demonstrated their sewing skills. The poppies are all bespoke and some are a very individual…… just like us!” She added, “It’s also been great to have the support of others from the Royal British Legion who gave up their time to help our students with the craftwork.”

In the lead up to Armistice Day, Secretary of the Royal British Legion - Retford, Mrs Ann Hickman visited ‘ The Poppy Tree’ and also held some commemorative events within the school to provide students with time to reflect on the meaning of ‘The Poppy’ and how fund raising supports veterans and their families.

“We’re absolutely delighted that students have worked for over a year to produce some beautiful poppies and helped to raise valuable funds – we would like to express our gratitude for the hard work and support of all the staff and students at Tuxford Academy .” commented Mrs Hickman.

As the week of Remembrance activity drew to a close all students took part in special assemblies attended by Veterans from Britain and Russia who all gave moving accounts of their service during the Cold War. Address: Marnham Road, Tuxford, Newark NG22 0JH Website: www.tuxford-ac.org.uk Press enquiries to: Andrea Bamber, Co-ordinator, Tel: 01777 870001 Ext 539 Email: [email protected]. Principal: Mr D Cotton -ENDS-

Address: Marnham Road, Tuxford, Newark NG22 0JH Website: www.tuxford-ac.org.uk Press enquiries to: Andrea Bamber, Co-ordinator, Tel: 01777 870001 Ext 539 Email: [email protected]. Principal: Mr D Cotton