Pupils Contribute to Holocaust Memorial Day Commemoration
On Tuesday last week, pupils took part in the Worcester Holocaust Memorial Day Commemoration Event at the Guildhall, joining schools and members of the local community to mark Holocaust Memorial Day 2026. This year’s theme, Bridging Generations, focused on the importance of remembrance and how the stories of the Holocaust are passed on to future generations.
The event was supported by the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, Worcestershire Interfaith Forum and Worcester City Council, and brought together pupils, educators and members of the local community. Introductions and welcome were given by the Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Dr Matt Lamb, and Vice Lord Lieutenant Dr The Hon Gilbert Greenall CBE. Proceedings were led by the Revd Catherine Lack, Chair of Worcestershire Interfaith Forum, and included readings by pupils from a number of local schools.
Music formed a central part of the commemoration, opening with a moving performance of Edward Elgar’s Nimrod by the RGS String Quartet, performed in front of the bust of Elgar in the Guildhall. Later in the programme, Year Ten pupil Finlay Hilton performed Songs My Mother Taught Me by Antonín Dvořák, a piece selected to reflect this year’s theme of Bridging Generations.
The guest speaker was the Revd Tony Rindl, who shared his father’s story as a Holocaust survivor. His testimony offered a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance and the responsibility carried by future generations to listen, learn and bear witness.
Pupils also contributed an art installation inspired by the work of Jennifer Collier. Taking the form of children’s clothing as a symbolic structure, the installation was made up of individual tea bags designed by pupils, each incorporating Holocaust imagery. The use of fragile materials alongside strong historical references reflected themes of loss, remembrance and the importance of preserving individual stories. When brought together as a single collaborative piece, the installation highlighted both personal contribution and collective reflection.
Event organisers praised the contribution made by pupils through both music and art, noting the impact of the work presented and the commitment shown by those involved. Each participating pupil was presented with a certificate in recognition of their contribution to the commemoration.
