Reflections on the Year 9 Holocaust Memorial Day

Where was God in Auschwitz? Why was this ever allowed to happen? How can you commemorate something as horrific as the Holocaust through art? These are questions we considered in Year 9 Holocaust Memorial Day. In the morning, we had a detailed look at the Holocaust in three sessions: Religious Studies, English and History. In RS, we began Holocaust education by dispelling myths about the Holocaust. Then, as we examined the horrors of concentration camps, God was put on trial, just as he was in Auschwitz, where thousands of Jews lost their faith. Jewish responses to the problem of evil were carefully pondered as we contemplated how a good God could allow death camps. The theme of confronting tragedy continued in English, where we learnt about memorials to the millions of dead Jews. The simple, minimalist memorial in Berlin was juxtaposed against the deeply personal Yad Vashem, and we discussed how to remember the Holocaust respectfully through art and sculptures. Lastly, a comprehensive History session examined the causes of the Holocaust, and how Nazi populism turned brutally against the Jews. What could have been done to stop the Holocaust? It turns out, quite a lot. The tense issue of responsibility was explored through a complex yet engaging session from the indefatigable History department.

After lunch, the sombre tone changed as we heard of the inspirational exploits of Sally Noach, who saved hundreds from the Nazis. We were honoured to have his daughter, Lady Irene Hatter, recounting his feats of altruistic chutzpah with her inspiring film Forgotten Soldier. Lady Irene travels across the world to meet people saved by Sally forging Dutch documentation to prevent Nazi deportation. An unsung hero who risked everything for Jews facing concentration camps finally gains recognition in an incredible documentary I am privileged to have seen. The whole day was insightful, comprehensive and – crucially – respectful. We all benefitted immensely from the whole day and the personal story of a humble hero, which has inspired me and, doubtless, many others.

Barnaby Frith, Year 9

Ahead of Year 9's Holocaust Memorial Day, the Headmaster led a whole school assembly on the same subject.  You can read his reflections here.