Great Yarmouth Charter Academy Commemorates Holocaust Memorial Day with Workshop and Book Fair

Great Yarmouth Charter Academy marked Holocaust Memorial Day 2025 with a poignant workshop and book fair, providing students with a profound understanding of the Holocaust through various literature. The event featured readings of poetry, real-life stories, and fiction, allowing pupils to engage deeply with the historical and emotional aspects of this tragic period.

Throughout the day, students read texts that depicted the harrowing experiences of Holocaust survivors and the impact of the Holocaust on future generations. One of the highlights was a reading of Elie Wiesel's "Night," a powerful memoir that recounts his experiences in Nazi concentration camps. Pupils also explored poetry by Holocaust survivors, such as "The Butterfly" by Pavel Friedmann, which poignantly captures the loss of innocence and hope.

In addition to these readings, the book fair showcased a variety of fiction and non-fiction works that provided different perspectives on the Holocaust. Students had the opportunity to discuss these texts in small groups, fostering a deeper understanding and empathy for those who suffered.

The academy is also planning an educational trip to Auschwitz in 2026, aiming to provide students with a firsthand experience of the historical site. This trip is expected to have a profound impact on the pupils, helping them to connect more deeply with the history they have studied.

One pupil, Jess, shared her thoughts on the day's events: "Reading the stories and poems made me realize the immense suffering people went through. It’s important for us to remember and learn from this history so it never happens again."

The day was commemorated alongside the academy's annual remembrance service in the town's park for Armistice Day, where over 200 families gathered to honour the victims of the Holocaust. The service included speeches, a moment of silence, and the laying of wreaths, creating a solemn and reflective atmosphere.

Principal Dean Rosembert emphasised the importance of these events: "Holocaust Memorial Day is a crucial part of our curriculum. It not only teaches our students about history but also instils values of empathy, tolerance, and the importance of standing against hatred."

The combination of the workshop, book fair, and remembrance service provided a comprehensive and impactful way for the Great Yarmouth Charter Academy community to honour Holocaust Memorial Day, ensuring that the lessons of the past are remembered and carried forward.

For more information about the academy's events and future plans, please visit their website or contact the school directly.