Scones and spitfires at school VE Day celebration

There were tasty treats in store when children at a Whitley Bay school celebrated the eightieth anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.

Staff and pupils alike at Star of the Sea Catholic Primary arrived dressed in patriotic red, white, and blue for the historic occasion, which also featured a host of themed activities for all year groups.

“All of our children at Star of the Sea, from Nursery to Year 6, took part in VE Day celebrations,” said Catherine McQuillan, Reception Teacher and Early Years Lead at the school, which is a member of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust.

“Across the school, our children learned about the importance of the day and remembered those who fought bravely in the war.

“Our kitchen staff prepared a VE Day celebration with a delicious selection of desserts for our children to enjoy.”

Some of the pupils also tested out their culinary skills, while others commemorated the Battle of Britain, complete with their own planes.

“Pupils in Year 3 discovered how the Spitfire played a key role in helping to win the War, especially during the Battle of Britain,” explained Mrs McQuillan. “A highlight of their day was recreating an aerial battle, just like the brave pilots.”

“Year 5 created their own Spitfire planes, made fruit scones with cream and jam, and wrote prayers of remembrance,” she continued.

“In Early Years, our children made a tasty treat of traditional Rock Buns. They weighed, rubbed, and then mixed the ingredients, before baking them in the oven.

“We decorated flags and sang some songs throughout the day.”

The celebrations concluded with a special assembly.

“Finally, as a whole school, we came together at the end of the day to mark such a historic event,” added Mrs McQuillan. “We listened to some of the children’s ‘prayers for the fallen’ and had a whole school sing-along.

“Celebrating VE Day as a school was incredibly important, because it helped children understand the significance of history – particularly the sacrifices made and the joy that peace can bring.

“Activities we held during the day provided pupils with a hands-on learning experience, making history engaging, and further developed respect and gratitude for those who fought for freedom.

“May we never forget.”

Other BBCET schools holding VE Day events included St Catherine’s Catholic Primary, St Teresa’s Catholic Primary, and St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School.