Gatwick students honour armed forces community at local celebrations

Students from The Gatwick School (TGS), part of Aurora Academies Trust, proudly celebrated Armed Forces Day with the local community in Crawley to honour the armed forces.

The parade began in the morning, led by a marching band, with representatives from each branch of the armed forces taking part.

Ten students attended the event, demonstrating pride and professionalism throughout the morning as outstanding ambassadors for TGS. They marched alongside veterans in civilian dress, accompanied by teacher Mr Callaghan and school volunteer Mr Prior.

Beginning at the bandstand, the procession completed a lap of the memorial grounds before returning for the flag-raising ceremony.

Members of the community stood together in respectful silence as the flag was raised, followed by speeches recognising the service and sacrifice of armed forces personnel. The event concluded with the formal dismissal of the parade.

The event reflected TGS's strong partnership with the Crawley and Horsham Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club, which has grown through a shared commitment to remembering and honouring those who have served.

Members of the club previously visited TGS to take part in a special remembrance service alongside local Second World War veteran, George Durrant.

TGS is proud to continue working with the Crawley and Horsham Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club, creating meaningful opportunities beyond the classroom that help pupils develop respect and strengthen community connections.

David Marillat, Headteacher at The Gatwick School, said: “We are incredibly proud to support the veterans in our local community and see our pupils representing the TGS family with such respect and dignity. It is important that we continue to stand together as a community, remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our liberty."