Remembrance Day (The Glen, Winter 2024)

The Remembrance Day ceremony on November 9 was the third-ever Bayview Glen collaboration between all three divisions (Lower, Prep, Upper). As students, staff, and members of our community gathered, our school's core values of respect, responsibility, and compassion were prominently displayed. The ceremony featured poignant and nuanced speeches by Lieutenant Colonel Hawk (a proud Bayview Glen parent), retired Lieutenant Colonel Hirji* (a proud Bayview Glen parent), and Captain Federico. The theme centred on peacekeeping, with their words highlighting the history of peacekeeping as an idea and the reasons for international alliances between countries like Australia and Canada. Insights into the lived experiences of peacekeeping missions illuminated the complexities and importance of these efforts. This event underscored the responsibilities and sacrifices of military personnel. It also alluded to the fact that we are living in a time where peace is fleeting worldwide, and many continue to sacrifice.

As students, staff, and members of the Bayview Glen community exited the ceremony, there were many reflections on how we can live in a good way and remember those who laid down their lives in the name of peace.

Jesse Denison, Head of Lower School and Preschool

*A special thanks to retired Lieutenant Colonel Arif Hirji, who will become an alumni parent this June after over a decade of assisting with Remembrance Day ceremonies at the school.