At Poelkapelle Cemetery there are 84% of the graves (over 6000) that have no known name on them. We were possibly the first people to visit these ‘unknown’ soldiers in 100 years.

We were piped down Passchendale Ridge, which seemed to bemuse some local Alpacas.

At Tyne Cot Cemetery there are over 11,000 graves and 30,000 names on the memorial walls. One name is a young man from the family of Lieutenant Simons. Another chance to remember in respect.

At Langemarck we answered the question, “Where are the German graves?” A different cemetery experience than those we have visited before, but a crucial part of our understanding the big picture.

The Battalion enjoyed some free time in Ypres. Most of those bags are filled with Belgian chocolate!

Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate.

A private remembrance ceremony at Poelkapelle was a fitting climax to the week that the 8th Battalion have had. It was emotional and the young people were so very impressive. What a week!

Our battalion wreath that was laid at Poelkapelle. The pupils work together to draft their message without any teacher involvement (we leave the room). They listen to, and incorporate, a range of ideas. It’s a real practical example of pupil leadership and empowerment.

It’s with mixed emotions that we start the journey home. Of course we’re all looking forward to returning to our families (get ready to hear all about the week!) but we’re also reflecting on the end of what has been the most memorable and impactful experience.

We’re back in Blighty. A distinct absence of bluebirds over the white cliffs, but it’s nice to feel closer to home. Can’t help but reflect on the many thousands we’ve learned about this week who never had the chance to come home.

When we were in Ypres there was an opportunity to “peace pout” (it’s a young folk thing!) which many took advantage of. But… Lieutenant Simons? Not sure if that pose has a name.

The officers of the 8th Battalion would like to express their thanks to all the recruits for their hard work, good humour, and resilience throughout what has been a week to remember.

We’ve just said goodbye to Jim, our driver for the week. We’ve enjoyed his company, and appreciated all the driving and coach management he did on our behalf. Our new Bibby's of Ingleton driver, Tom, will bring us home. Estimated arrival time is midnight. Updates as we get closer.

Our immense thanks to our @MercatToursInt guide, Margaret, who helped us be so much more than simply tourists. Knowledge, patience, humour - all adding to the success of the week.

A collection of Suffragette campaign paraphernalia created by Higher pupils. Of course brilliant posters, rosettes, and flags. But also amazing top hats, a giant campaign coffee mug and a trendy man-bag.

As results day dawns, whatever it brings, we are immensely proud of all our wonderful historians and we are grateful for the hard work they put in last year. Whether your next steps involve studying History or not, we know you’re going to be awesome!

S3 classes were determined that they were “not removing” - having learned all about the 1915 Glasgow rent strike. Then the bell went for the end of the period, and we had to “remove” after all.

Best of luck to all our History students for tomorrow. Whether you’re sitting Adv Higher, Higher or Nat 5, we know you’re awesome and you’re going to smash it! We’ll see you all tomorrow!

Our latest Battlefields Experience is almost ready to go! You can follow updates on our progress including plenty of photographs on Bluesky.

Our latest Battlefields Experience is almost ready to go! You can follow updates on our progress including plenty of photographs on Bluesky.