We’ve been working with six schools to help students discover the stories of soldiers recognised for the highest level of bravery. The schools were matched up with a Victoria Cross holder, pupils have visited the museum and received a session at school all about their chosen VC recipient. Each school has carried out research, gathered information about their soldier and created a banner summarising their findings.
The schools involved, and their VC holder are:
Hollis Academy, Middlesbrough – Stanley Hollis VC
Richmond School – Tom Dresser VC
Bedale High School – William Short VC
Boroughbridge High School – Archie White VC
Saint Francis Xavier, Richmond – William Anderson VC
Risedale College, Catterick – Henry Tandey VC
Bedale High pupils with some of their banner artwork
18 Victoria Crosses were awarded to soldiers serving with regiment. 14 are on display in the Medal Room, which re-opened earlier this year following a four-month redevelopment, supported by a National Lottery Heritage Grant.
“One of the actions on the Medal Room Improvement Plan was to include more interactive information about the servicemen who received the award ‘for valour’, and this latest project with schools has extended that yet further, whilst introducing students to the skills required should they wish to pursue studies or a career in research or museums and archives,” explains Learning Officer, Carl Watts. “It’s been a great opportunity to study these stories through fresh eyes. Whilst the actions which earned these individuals their VC took place many years ago, the themes of friendship, bravery, teamwork and duty stand the test of time and are truly inspirational.”
The schools worked independently on their banner, but will gather together at the museum on Monday to unveil them, share their Victoria Cross holder’s story and observe two minutes’ silence, before taking the banners away to display in their school.