St Richard's pupils hold events torecognise Holocaust Memorial Day

On the day itself, two students from each form group were invited to hear the live testimony of Holocaust Survivor, Rudi Oppenheimer.

Pupil Florence Forde said of the event: “Hearing Rudi’s story of how he survived the Holocaust was very touching. It gave me a personal insight into how the Holocaust affected normal people and their families.

“It made me realise just how important it is to remember the Holocaust as it is an event that should never be repeated.”

RE teacher Miss Henry facilitated a trip for 15 pupils to the Holocaust Memorial Service held at Chichester Cathedral on January 29.

Pupil Amy Tattersall said: “It was a privilege to be able to go. To begin with we did a workshop based on human rights, the foundation of the testimony we would later hear from survivor Steven Frank.

“I don’t have words for how moving and inspiring his testimony was.

“The statistics he gave us were astonishing, and the detail of his experience was incredible considering his age of 80 years old.

“I had an amazing time, and as a result, now have a better understanding of the Holocaust, and also a different view on those affected.”

Finally, on Saturday January 30, St Richard’s pupils were privileged to contribute to the Hastings Borough Council Holocaust Memorial Day service at St Mary in the Castle.

Pupils sang, danced and mimed sensitive reflections, providing an opportunity for quiet contemplation of this year’s theme: Don’t Stand By.

They rehearsed poetry, musical solos, dance, song and mime to create a moving, poignant piece.

A spokesperson for the school said: “During the week our pupils were asked particularly to reflect upon the uncomfortable links between apparently low-level actions and the devastating events of the Holocaust.

“Overall, the message from survivors, their children and others affected has been one of hope that, with the help of our young people, we can remember and honour those before us, and promise a better future to those ahead.”

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