Ellon Academy and community collaborate to create poppy waterfall display
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Ellon Academy marked Armistice Day by creating a poppy waterfall display and a striking handprint painting.
Last month, the school asked pupils, parents, carers, and families to make poppies, to commemorate Armistice Day and the 100th anniversary of Poppyscotland, which feature in the display.
Principal teacher Karin Leslie posted videos and tutorials on how to make them on the school’s Facebook account – from quite complicated knitting and crocheting to using red cupcake holders with tie fasteners.
Pauline Buchan, Ellon Academy’s rector, said the school was overwhelmed with the response from the local community.
She added: “We’ve been inundated. Some pupils' grannies have been knitting furiously and crocheting. We’ve got some amazing creations.
"Pupils have come in with boxes full of poppies with different designs. Our staff have been involved as well.
"There were workshops over lunchtimes where staff came in and made their own poppies.”
The display was installed on Tuesday, November 9, in the school’s Sunken Social Area. S6 pupils have also created a picture of a poppy comprising red handprints on a black background, which will be displayed alongside the poppies.
Pupils are learning about Armistice Day in history, geography, and modern studies classes. Some of their work will be displayed alongside the waterfall as well.
Mrs Buchan said: “I am so grateful to the local community in Ellon for its overwhelming response to our plea for poppies.
"It has been so heartening for me and the senior leadership team to see the generosity and support shown by the community and their willingness to acknowledge those who made the ultimate sacrifice so we can enjoy our freedom today.”
Gordon Michie, head of fundraising and learning at Poppyscotland said: “On behalf of Poppyscotland I want to send sincere thanks to Ellon Academy – the display looks wonderful.
"Our work relies on supporters like Ellon Academy who champion our mission that those who have served or are still serving are deserving of our support to live life fully without disadvantage after service.
"The poppy waterfall is a truly moving tribute to our fallen servicemen and women, and as we mark the 100th anniversary of the poppy, the display is even more poignant.”
Armistice Day is commemorated annually on November 11 to mark the armistice signed between the allied forces and Germany resulting in the end of World War One.
