In the UK, Remembrance Day is observed each year on the second Sunday of November.
It evolved from Armistice Day, celebrated on November 11, marking the signing of the historic armistice that ended the First World War on November 11, 1918.
While Armistice Day initially honored fallen Commonwealth soldiers of the First World War, its meaning transformed following the devastation of the Second World War.
Today, Remembrance Day commemorates all British and Commonwealth service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts worldwide since the First World War.
The main remembrance ceremonies, including the poignant parade past the Cenotaph, typically take place on Remembrance Sunday, although events are also held on Armistice Day.
Originally focused on the First World War’s casualties, Remembrance Day now honors all British and Commonwealth armed forces members who have lost their lives in wars and conflicts across the globe.
At Coulsdon Sixth Form College, Remembrance and Armistice Day are marked in powerful ways. Our staff and students have chosen to commemorate these days through:
- Two-Minute Silence: A significant remembrance ceremony, the two-minute silence serves as a moment of quiet reflection on the profound loss of countless men and women due to war across the globe.
- An exhibition in the Atrium: remembering all those from across Britain and Commonwealth who help protect us, our communities and country.
- Poppy Wearing: The iconic red poppy symbolizes peace and loss. Various colored poppies promote different aspects of remembrance: black poppies honor black servicemen and women, white poppies represent pacifism, and purple poppies commemorate fallen animals.
