Reflecting on the Holocaust

Before half-term, our Year 7 students were moved by a powerful visit from Debra Barnes of the Holocaust education charity, Generation 2 Generation. Speaking in the Hertswood Theatre, Debra shared the poignant history of her mother, Paulette, who survived as a hidden child in France while many of her family members were tragically lost. The session provided a deeply personal connection to the students' current studies of the novel 'Once' by Morris Gleitzman in their literacy lessons.

Debra described the five years of meticulous research she undertook to piece together her family's past, emphasising that the work of uncovering these histories never truly stops. She spoke candidly about the emotional weight of sharing her story, noting that she feels a duty to teach the ultimate lessons of the dangers of hatred and antisemitism. Students were particularly struck by the fact that her mother was saved by the kindness of strangers of different faiths.

We are very grateful to Debra for sharing her testimony with our students. Her visit left Year 7 with much to reflect upon as they continue their studies of this period in history.