Following the success of our D-Day80 commemoration in June 2024, St Joseph’s College felt it was fitting to mark Victory in Europe Day, which the landings eventually led to. And St Jo’s did so in style.
‘This was our opportunity to bring the St Joseph’s College community together and to say thank you to the “golden” generation who won us the freedom which we enjoy today,’ said Mr Cinnamond, Deputy Principal.
Opened by Chair of Governors, Mr Glading, the evening celebrated past sacrifice and current peace. In readings, songs and music, the joy and relief of 1945 was recreated by students of all ages, by staff and by Old Birkfeldians, who returned to add their own tributes. Songs popular with the Forces and on the Home Front rang out across South Park.
Our Prep Junior Choir brought added poignancy. Marching in unison and dressed as evacuees, Land Girls, soldiers and nurses, they sang a medley of tunes. Senior students Grace (Y9) and Oscar (Y10) gave outstanding renditions of ‘Wish Me Luck’ and ‘A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square’ respectively. Grace later teamed up with the master of ceremonies, Dr Rice, to perform the History teacher’s own composition, ‘Shores of Normandy.’
The Prep and Senior Vocal Ensemble came right up to date with a song highlighting the ongoing sacrifice of Service families, ‘Wherever You Are’, the Military Wives’ Choir Platinum-winning anthem.
Returning students adding their special talents to the evening included Bella Ross OB, who sang ‘Smile’, former Deputy Head Girl Anna Simpson-Jacobs OB, who sang ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ in duet with Acting Director of Music, Mrs Barker, and Tabitha Debenham OB. Fortunately for us all, Tabitha has gone on to be a member of The Three Chordettes, a harmony trio specialising in the mid-century era.
The stylish Chordettes sang two sets of period perfect songs, braving the cold in vintage swing dresses on an evening when Forties furs would have been appreciated.
Poems, including ‘The Return’ written by a St Joseph’s College student in 1945, were read by Luca (Y4), Isobel (Y6), Jensen (Y6) & Felicity (Y6), and by Ademide & Alex (both Y11). Holly (Y7) delivered an excerpt from George VI’s VE Day speech.
Playing an active part in the event, too, was Mrs Wong, St Jo’s new Director of Music, who will be taking up the post in September.
Dr Rice and Mr Cinnamond set the event in context, before the audience joined former Head Boy Wilfred Kemsley OB in the hymn, ‘I Vow to Thee, My Country’. The solemn mood was enhanced by a Piper’s Tribute, played by another Old Birkfeldian, Euan Chalmers. This was followed by the lighting of the beacon at 9.15pm, as similar fires were struck across the country. A joyful burst of fireworks brought the commemoration to a close.
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