Reflecting on the Past, Shaping the Future:

 Southborough Commemorates Holocaust Memorial Day

Last week, Southborough High School joined schools and communities across the country to observe Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD). It was a week dedicated to reflection, education, and a shared commitment to ensuring that the harrowing lessons of history are never forgotten. By engaging with both local history and global narratives, our students explored the importance of empathy and the dangers of discrimination towards others.

A Local Connection: Year 9 Visits Surbiton Synagogue

A central highlight of the week’s activities was a series of visits to Kingston Synagogue. Two separate groups of Year 9 students had the privilege of stepping outside the classroom to engage directly with the Holocaust Memorial Workshop to enhance their understanding of the Holocaust History topic currently being studied.

Students had the important opportunity to listen to a Holocaust survivor on each day and gain an understanding of their experience during World War II.  Students also learnt about children hidden by non-Jewish families during the war, the experience of the traveller community during the Holocaust and the impact of the Holocaust on them that continues today, reminding students of the importance of actions by the current generation in promoting equality and understanding of all people in the current modern world.  Students also participated in some group activities to learn more about the laws created in Germany during the war that caused harm to those such as Jewish people, gypsies, disabled people and other minority groups.  The workshop finished with a lighting of candles to remember those who suffered during the Holocaust.

A Lasting Impact

At Southborough, we believe that understanding the past is the first step toward building a better future. The maturity and respect shown by our students throughout the week—particularly during the synagogue visits—were exemplary. As we move forward, we carry these lessons with us, reaffirming our school’s dedication to tolerance and mutual respect.