Flagging up Lynn’s history

Springwood students carried flags that they had designed themselves to take part in the town’s historic Hanse Parade.

Eight of our Year 7 students were invited by the Mayor of King’s Lynn, Andy Bullen, to join the event on Sunday 15 June, which forms part of the annual Hanse Festival celebrating King’s Lynn’s heritage as the first British member of Die Hanse, forerunner of the modern Hanse League.

This year marked the 20th anniversary of when the town rejoined the Hanseatic League, with the festival weekend including live music, historical re-enactments, medieval markets and food fairs, and family-friendly crafts and activities, as well as the Parade.

“The Hanse is an active network of cities and towns across Europe, which historically belonged to the Hanseatic League,” explained our Senior Assistant Head and Head of Year 7, Rebecca Davies-Mays, who accompanied the students, along with Deputy Headteacher Richard Thompson, Year 7 Manager Charlotte Isle, and Assistant Head of Year 7 Emily Bunting.

Starting in Tuesday Market Place, the Hanse Parade took a route through the town via High Street, Saturday Market Place, Hanse House, College Lane, and the South Quay, to finish in King’s Staithe Square.

“Year 7 designed flags to represent the different countries that are part of the Hanse,” continued Mrs Davies-Mays. “The students then walked carrying these flags. The flags will make up a display at Hanse House.”

It was the first time that our school, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, had taken part in the event.

“It is important that we highlight and celebrate King’s Lynn’s rich history with our students and ensure that it is passed on to the next generation,” added Mrs Davies-Mays. 

“I think it is important that students are aware of their local history, as it has shaped the town and the community that we have today.

“Being invited to take part in events like this supports the being part of the community message that we instill in Springwood students."