Commonwealth Observance
Pupils attend 60th Celebrations at Westminster Abbey
On Monday 9th March, five First Form pupils attended the Observance for Commonwealth Day at Westminster Abbey. Jonathan S, who is a boarder at the Manor, recently won the U12 Commonwealth Essay Competition, and his prize included an invitation to the celebrations in London. His essay was a very moving piece, about his best friend's battle against a type of cancer called Osteosarcoma. Jonathan was allowed to invite a number of his friends to accompany him on this very special occasion. He chose four of his Manor friends and, of course, his best friend George - the main character of Jonathan's essay.
The Observance began with a procession of the 53 Commonwealth flags through the Abbey, which preceded many dignitaries from all around the world, including Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh. The boys had great seats, and the Royal party passed within ten feet of them! The celebrations contained a colourful mix of music, dance and compelling testimonials which brought forward a message "about fulfilling human potential, making our future, fighting for justice, caring for others and achieving excellence" (in the words of Commonwealth Secretary-General, his Excellency Kamalesh Sharma).
After the Observance the boys met some of the performers including singer Njabulo Madlala, saxophonist Jason Yarde, the Kiribati Tungaru Association Dance Group. Just as they thought the day was coming to an end, the Dauntsey's group began talking to one of the Abbey's Vergers, called Benjamin. Benjamin began to tell them a little of the Abbey's history; encouraged by their enthusiasm and interest, the Verger treated the boys to a detailed personal tour of the Abbey. The boys saw many of the hidden treasures contained within, including the Shrine of St. Edward the Confessor, the Chapel of Henry VII, Tombs of Elizabeth I and Mary I, the tomb of Mary Queen of Scots and the Coronation Chair. It was a perfect end to a wonderful day.
This year's celebrations had a very special significance as it marked the 60th anniversary of the modern Commonwealth; the theme of this year's Observance was not just looking back over the last 60 years, but also about looking towards the challenges facing the new generation and the new Commonwealth. It was therefore most fitting that Jonathan and his friends were in attendance: due to an essay that he wrote, detailing the challenges faced by his very brave best friend, George.
To read Jonathan's winning essay, written whilst still at primary school, click the icon below:
