Murray Park pupils honour heroes through art at Poppy Appeal launch

Pupils from a Derby school joined Chelsea Pensioners, veterans and dignitaries for a special occasion bringing generations together in remembrance.

Eight pupils from Murray Park School in Mickleover attended the regional launch of the Poppy Appeal at Toyota’s Burnaston plant, which stands on the site of the former Second World War airfield RAF Burnaston, also once known as Derby Airport.

The pupils earned their places after taking part in a school-wide competition to create artwork for the poppy displays. Their winning designs took pride of place alongside other artwork created by students from the school.

Year nine student Jess said: “I was so excited when I found out about the competition that I went straight home that evening and created my piece that night.

“I decorated a glass frame with poppies in several different colours. A red one for the fallen soldiers, a purple one for all the animals that we lost and a white to represent peace altogether.

“I feel very passionate about supporting this cause. It’s important to keep remembrance alive and continue talking about it, especially so younger generations understand why it matters.

“It was amazing to attend the event and meet some of the Chelsea Pensioners and former military personnel. They had so many interesting stories to tell.

“I’m in the Girl Guides and will be taking part in the Remembrance Day parades. I hope that one day I’ll get to carry the flag.”

Other artwork on display included a papier-mâché poppy, scenes depicting poppy fields and soldiers and a giant poppy featuring a wartime quote and a fallen leaf symbolising those who lost their lives during the war.

The day began with a service and speeches from Toyota staff and veterans, before attendees were led outside to a memorial stand. There, each person took part in a moment of remembrance by placing a poppy into a jar, before receiving a poppy of their own.

Murray Park has maintained a close partnership with Toyota for more than a decade, with the car manufacturer playing an important role in supporting the school’s careers programme. Over the years, pupils have benefited from work experience placements, careers guidance and opportunities to develop valuable skills for their future.

Following the event, the artwork will be displayed around the school, helping to keep the message of remembrance alive and encouraging pupils to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served.

Acting headteacher George Hagen, who accompanied the pupils to the event, said: “I am incredibly proud of all the pupils who took part. They put so much thought and effort into their artwork and it was wonderful to see their hard work recognised at such an important event.

“The competition has also helped bring history to life in school, encouraging pupils to learn more about the war, the sacrifices made and why remembrance remains so important today.

“It was a fantastic experience for everyone involved and one I hope the pupils will remember for years to come.”