At Richard Hale School, National Holocaust Day 2026 provides an important opportunity for our whole community to pause, remember, and reflect. Commemoration is not limited to a single day; rather, it is embedded through education, assemblies, and opportunities for both students and staff to bear witness to the lived experiences of those affected by the Holocaust.

A key part of this work takes place in Year 9, where students begin a detailed scheme of learning focused on antisemitism and the Holocaust as part of their Religious Education curriculum. Delivered throughout January, these lessons allow students to explore the historical events of the Holocaust alongside deeper discussions about prejudice, discrimination, and the consequences of hatred. This structured approach ensures that students engage thoughtfully with the subject matter, building both knowledge and empathy.

As part of this learning, Year 9 students will view a webcast provided by the Holocaust Education Trust on and following 27th January. This powerful resource enables students to hear directly from a Holocaust survivor, helping to bring history to life in a deeply personal and meaningful way. This year, students will hear the testimony of Paul Sved BEM, whose story offers invaluable insight into the realities of the Holocaust and the importance of remembrance. Following the webcast, students will complete written reflection tasks, encouraging them to consider what they have heard and why it is vital that the events of the Holocaust continue to be remembered and taught.

In subsequent lessons, students will be invited to write to Holocaust survivors working with the Holocaust Education Trust. Through these letters, students can express their thanks, share reflections on what they have learned, and explain why Holocaust education matters to them. They are also encouraged to ask thoughtful questions, fostering a meaningful connection between past experiences and present-day learning.

Commemoration also extends to our sixth form community. As Head of Religious Education, assemblies have already been delivered to Year 13, with the same message being shared with Year 12. These assemblies provide space for older students to reflect on moral responsibility, remembrance, and the relevance of Holocaust education in today’s world.

Staff are likewise invited to take part in this act of remembrance. During non-teaching time, colleagues are welcome to watch the survivor testimony and bear witness if they wish, reinforcing the idea that Holocaust Memorial Day is a collective moment of reflection for the entire school community.

Through these activities, Richard Hale School reaffirms its commitment to education, remembrance, and standing against antisemitism and all forms of hatred. By listening, reflecting, and bearing witness together, we honour the victims of the Holocaust and help ensure that their stories are never forgotten.