VE Day Celebrations at Forres Sandle Manor

VE Day

At Forres Sandle Manor, pupils have been learning about the significance of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day), and taking part in activities around the led up to the event itself.

We will be adding to this blog, but here are some of the things that have been going on so far:

VE Day Pre Prep Textiles

Textiles Club VE Day Bunting

In our Pre Prep Textiles Club recently, the children have been reflecting on VE Day and the inspiring story of Mrs Sew and Sew—a character from the Make Do and Mend campaign during WWII.

As shared by the D-Day Museum in Portsmouth, sewing was a vital skill during the war, with clothes rationed from 1941 to 1949. Families were encouraged to repair and reuse clothing, and Mrs Sew and Sew helped households with practical tips through pamphlets and animated films.

Inspired by her resourceful spirit, we took on our own Make Do and Mend project! Using old calico bags and scraps of felt and fabric, our club created handmade flags for a special VE Day celebration display.

A little creativity and a lot of history stitched into every piece! Here they are making their VE Day bunting.

John Lecky in World War 2

John Lecky World War 2 VE Day

John Lecky was a Master of Sandle Manor and a former pupil of Pembroke Lodge. This letter describes the injuries he received during battle in World War 2

John Marjoribanks – A Young Hero of the Second Wave

John Majaribanks - Sandle Manor Headmaster VE Day

Among the many brave individuals who took part in the D-Day landings was John Marjoribanks, later known as the third Headmaster of Sandle Manor School. At just 20 years old during the Normandy landings, Marjoribanks served as a Fleet Air Arm navigator, playing a vital role during the second wave of the assault at Sword Beach.

Operating from the skies, he was responsible for coordinating naval aviation efforts that supported the troops on the ground, navigating through hostile skies under immense pressure. His precision and courage contributed to the success of operations during one of the most pivotal moments of the Second World War.

In recognition of his bravery and significant contribution to the liberation of France, John Marjoribanks was later awarded the Légion d’honneur—France’s highest order of merit. His life stands as a remarkable blend of service, leadership, and dedication, both in times of war and peace.

John Majaribanks - Sandle Manor Headmaster - Wedding

VE Day Menu

We are very much looking forward to our fabulous VE Day celebration with an incredible selection on the menu.

VE Day Lunch Menu

A HUGE thank you to our incredible catering team who have pulled out all the stops today for a fantastic D-Day Street Party lunch!

In honour of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, our students and staff enjoyed a delicious array of festive treats, including Pizza Swirls, Cottage Pie Yorkshire Puddings, Coronation Chicken Goujons, Great British Sausage Rolls, Potato Biscuits, Crisp Crudités – and so much more!

Your creativity and effort made today extra special. Thank you for bringing history to life through such a fun and flavoursome celebration! 👏