Over 1,100 pupils, staff, governors, and invited guests gathered in Solihull School’s Great Quadrangle today (Tuesday 11 November) to honour and remember those who lost their lives in the World Wars and other conflicts.

Wreaths were laid at the War Memorial by the Heads of School, Isabella Skinner and Tom Payne; CCF Cadet, Evie Walsh-Cooper; Old Silhillian Serving Officers, Wg Cdr Thomas Bates, RAF (Windsor 1990–2001), and Wg Cdr Adam Collins, RAF (Windsor 1985–1996), representing all past and current Old Silhillian serving officers; President of Solihull School Parents’ Association, Aneesa Ahmed; President of Saint Martin’s Old Girls Association, Paula Loneragan; President of the Old Silhillians’ Association, Simon Westwood (Shenstone 1966–1975); Governor Ian Ralph; The Bursar, Richard Bate; and the Executive Headmaster, Charles Fillingham.

The service featured a moving rendition of the Last Post by Fourth Form pupil Izzy Olden, followed by a two-minute silence, the Reveille played by Third Form pupil Tristan Arthur, and a Roll of Honour. Mr Fillingham then recited the traditional tribute to The Fallen. The Act of Remembrance was live-streamed to 500 Prep School pupils and staff on the Saint Martin’s campus and was followed by a Sixth Form Chapel Service led by Chaplain, Reverend Rachel Hill-Brown.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to Adam Collins and Thomas Bates for returning to lay a wreath at this year’s Remembrance Service. Your presence brought great significance to the occasion, and it was an honour to welcome you back. We truly appreciate the time you took to join us and help ensure the service was a fitting tribute to those who served.

Recording Solihull School Remembrance Day 2025 - YouTube