HPA/HBA – Visit to the Poppy Factory 

 On Thursday 6 July 2023, pupils from Holbeach Primary Academy, Holbeach Bank Academy and William Stukeley C of E Primary School visited the Poppy Factory in Richmond, Surrey.

We are delighted to be invited by Mr Sheppard, the Chairman of the Holbeach Branch of the Royal British Legion, to the Poppy Factory in Richmond, Surry. This was kindly funded through local businesses including Chosen Holbeach, JT Ward joinery and JT Ward Kitchens and bathrooms.

The children enjoyed a fascinating talk about the history of the poppy emblem and how it became a reminder for those we had lost in the war. We were also told about the history of the site and how veterans were supported by the factory in many ways including as an income for those so disabled that they couldn’t find work elsewhere.

We were then able to make poppies ourselves, we had to use our weakest hand and a wooden block to remind us what it would be like for those with disabilities.

Once the current stock of poppies – which use plastics – has been used up, the poppy factory will only be making poppies from recyclable materials to keep in-line with sustainable practice. The revamped site, which was opened by our now queen consort, Camilla, was clearly designed to be sustainable too, with wild-flower planting and the use of natural light to heat and light.

There was an exhibition of special wreaths made for momentous occasions with many photographs and letters describing the importance these held for those involved. We were all able to engage in wreath-making ourselves and watch these being packed up ready to send out for Remembrance next November.

This was a truly enjoyable experience, with children across all three schools learning about our past while seeing so clearly how this important British tradition is preparing for the future.

Holbeach Primary and Holbeach Bank Academies have also received their Agreements of Affiliation with the Royal British Legion, the Youth Organisation, and look forward to further projects with the Royal British Legion.