Yesterday Burgess House was incredibly proud to participate in the Dunkirk Remembrance Day service alongside the residents of Dunkirk and Boughton.
Almost a year ago I was contacted by a resident of Dunkirk (and parent of a former Langton Boy) who suggested a collaboration between the house and village, where William Burgess lived and worked. I, and indeed all of the members of Burgess House, are incredibly proud that we carry William’s name, and this first email sparked a conversation which culminated in the event conducted yesterday.
Miles in Year 7, Ryan in Year 8, Oscar in Year 9, and Jude and Elliot both in year 10 alongside William and Evie our House Captains all participated in the event. These individuals were chosen by the staff of Burgess as young people who particularly honour the memory of William Burgess through their hard work, kindness, and general attitude and behaviour. Toyosi in Year 7, Alex in Year 8, and Rafa in Year 9 were also selected to attend the event but sadly could not make it due to other commitments (mainly sporting which would have greatly pleased William).
The students conducted themselves excellently and were a credit to their families and the school. Evie and Will battled the conditions admirably to conduct readings while Miles in year 7 laid a wreath created by Ms Thornton and the students of 7 Burgess.
The residents I spoke to could not have been more pleased to see the students of the Langton at the event while I could not have been more proud of the way they conducted themselves. It is my sincerest hope that this event marks the start of a tradition that will continue for many years, encouraging our students to engage with the school’s history and the solemn act of remembrance.
Oliver Latham
Head of Burgess House