150th Anniversary: Honouring Our Past with a World War Exhibition
This October, as part of our 150th celebrations of St. Edmund`s School, we hosted a World War exhibition in the Jubilee Hall curated by our Head of History, Mr Taylor. The event welcomed both past and present pupils, as well as the broader St. Edmund’s community, including Year 5 and 6 students from local primary schools — Camelsdale, Grayshott, and St. Mary’s Chiddingfold—as well as parents and residents from Huntington House Care Home.
''I just wanted to say a massive thank you so very much for inviting us to your War Exhibition today. It was fabulous and the children have come back to school so enthused and talking about everything they saw- a really impressive collection and a totally immersive experience (who needs the Imperial War museum with this fabulous experience!). It has brought our World War 1 topic to life.''
Emma Hampshire, Form 6 Teacher St. Mary's School, Chiddingfold
The exhibition served as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of the two World Wars, honouring the immense sacrifices made and reflecting on the lessons learned over the past century. The lives of all Old St Edmund’s (OSEs) who were lost in the wars were researched and shared through personal stories, allowing attendees to understand the individual contributions of former pupils.
Visitors were invited to explore the World Wars through a variety of immersive exhibits, including personal accounts from soldiers and discussions on the cultural changes that followed the conflicts. A wide range of military uniforms and helmets were available for pupils to try on, while air raid shelters and recreated trenches offered a hands-on experience of wartime life. The ‘Great Escape’ tunnel—complete with a home-made buggy for escaping—was a particular highlight, and the pupils greatly enjoyed trying their hand at this adventurous challenge.
The goal of the commemoration was to deepen pupils’ understanding of how these World Wars shaped modern society. By emphasising the importance of remembrance, reconciliation, and ongoing dialogue, the event highlighted the need for continued cooperation in the pursuit of global peace, ensuring that the legacies of these conflicts remain a source of reflection for future generations.
''St Edmunds’ 150th OSE’s At War exhibition, curated by Mr Taylor was incredible ! The interactive trenches and bunkers were a fun experience, but also demonstrated the types of conditions the soldiers faced at war amazingly well!
It was really nice to reflect on the old St. Edmund's pupils who had fought in the World Wars. For example, LT RE Soames, who was on the East Surrey football charge on the 1st of July, 1916. In addition, to be given the opportunity to see close-up objects such as a blood transfusion box, only one of 2 known to exist was very special, and gave me a clear insight into life at war, especially for the OSE pupils.''
Sophia Thompson, Head of Senior School, Form 11