Sexey’s School has come together over the past week to honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts past and present.

Last week, on Friday 7th November, the school welcomed Mr Townley, father of James Townley, a former student of Sexey’s, to speak to the entire school. Mr Townley shared reflections on remembrance, his son’s time at Sexey’s, and the profound impact of losing a child who had served in the armed forces.

Captain James Townley (29), from the Corps of Royal Engineers, is the last name on the school’s Remembrance Board. Mr Townley described his son as “a wonderful, caring, loving son. I am hugely proud of him.” Captain Townley attended University College Oxford, where he earned a first-class degree in engineering and computer science and rowed in the college’s first eight. Tragically, he died on his third tour of Afghanistan, following a shooting at Forward Operating Base Shawqat, a day before his 30th birthday.

This week, boarders attended the Remembrance Parade and church service at St Mary’s Church on Sunday 9th November, taking part in the solemn ceremonies that form the heart of the nation’s commemorations. Year 12 student Ola K also represented Sexey’s in London on the same day at the Royal British Legion’s Annual Remembrance Parade. Ola is part of the Fire Cadets for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, who were honoured to attend this national event.

On Tuesday 11th November, during morning tutor time, the 6th Form Prefects held a Remembrance Assembly for the whole school. Students who are members of uniformed organisations—including CCF, ACF, SCC, RAF Air Cadets, VCC, Scouts, Guides, Brownies, and St John’s Ambulance—were invited to wear their uniforms to represent their organisations.

Sexey’s School continues to uphold the tradition of remembrance, paying tribute to all those who have given their lives in service to their country and keeping their stories alive for future generations.