Students at The Holgate Academy in Hucknall gathered to commemorate the life of Her Majesty The Queen earlier this month.

The event, which took place on Friday 16 September, was viewed as a wonderful way to commemorate and reflect upon the long life, service and dedication of Queen Elizabeth II.

The longest ever serving British monarch died peacefully at the age of 96 at Balmoral on Friday 8 September.

In a fitting tribute, Principal, Matt Pennington, talked about Her Majesty's life and her 70 years of dedication to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, as well as the many other lives she touched across the globe.

Holgate prefects then recounted a number of historic events that had taken place throughout her long reign, including the first man to step foot on the moon, England winning the World Cup, the development of the internet, all the way through to Brexit and the Covid pandemic.

David Harkins' poem, 'She is Gone', was read, along with memories and reflections from Holgate students about The Queen. This was then followed by a two-minute silence and the playing of The Last Post.

Of the decision to hold a commemoration, Mr Pennington said: "The staff were overwhelmed by the desire of our pupils to be involved in the memorial event. Pupils from the different cadet organisations and our prefects spoke with purpose, wore uniforms with pride and represented the respect of the academy community perfectly."

For further information about The Holgate Academy, click here.