Highworth school pupils team up with developer to create Poppy Memorial Garden

It was unveiled in a ceremony attended by pupils, Headteacher Kimberley O’Sullivan, Gerry Evans, Chairman of the Highworth & District Branch of the Royal British Legion and Emily Adams from Backhouse.
The garden stands as a vibrant tribute of Remembrance and a place for the local community to visit, reflect, and pay their respects.
In preparation for the unveiling, every pupil created their own poppy windmill, symbolising Remembrance and gratitude. The school also held a special assembly led by Gerry Evans, who spoke to the children about the significance of Remembrance Day and shared reflections from his 18 years of service in the Royal Air Force. 
He highlighted the importance of honouring those who served and the continued support provided to veterans and their families. Gerry also commended Backhouse for naming the roads at their new Highworth development after the D-Day beach landings, describing it as a “...fitting and lasting tribute to those who served during the Second World War."
Afterwards, some of the children shared their thoughts:
“I really enjoyed making my poppy and planting it. It felt special and it made me think about why we wear poppies this time of year.”
“It’s been fabulous and helped us recall about the people who fought and risked their life for us to have freedom today. I’m excited to take part in the two minutes silence as I know what I will be thinking about.”
“I learned a lot more than I expected in the assembly with Gerry from The Royal British Legion. It was interesting.“
“I felt excited to make my poppy. It made my heart feel full. It filled me with joy planting it because it looks so beautiful.”
“I think the poppies outside look amazing. They brighten up the school and will make people smile as they go past.”
RBL’s vital work includes recovery programmes, housing and financial assistance, and initiatives to help veterans adapt to civilian life. 
The organisation continues to honour those who have served while reminding communities of the sacrifices made for freedom.
Mr Evans, Chairman of the Highworth & District Branch of the Royal British Legion, said: “It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm and respect shown by the pupils and staff at Southfield Junior School. Initiatives like this help to keep the message of remembrance alive for future generations while raising essential funds to support the Armed Forces community.”
Headteacher Kimberley O’Sullivan said: “Every child in our school had the opportunity to assemble their own poppy windmill and place it in the garden as an act of reflection. 
"This project not only helped our pupils understand the significance of remembrance but also encouraged them to think deeply about the sacrifices made by others. 
"We are grateful to Backhouse for their support and proud to contribute to the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.”
Emily Adams, Sales and Marketing Director at Backhouse, said: “It was an honour to collaborate with Southfield Junior School and the Royal British Legion on this meaningful initiative. 
"The memorial garden stands as a visible reminder of the bravery and sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces. 
"We hope that this year’s appeal will continue to strengthen the RBL’s invaluable mission to support veterans and their families.”
Based in the South of England, Backhouse creates contemporary homes with a strong sense of place and community. At nearby Backhouse Highworth, there is a collection of two, three, four and five-bedroom family homes available, combining elegant design with countryside living and easy access to Swindon. 
This includes a selection of homes available through First Homes, a scheme aimed at helping first time buyers onto the property ladder. 
 

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