Deputy Headteacher Ms de Groot led some very thought-provoking main school assemblies this week and linked the Theme of the Week based around International Peace Day to the exciting and very topical illustration of the Bayeux Tapestry.

The tapestry has been in the news recently after decades of diplomacy and negotiation resulted in it being exhibited at the British Museum from September 2026 to July 2027. The 70-metre-long tapestry, depicting events leading up to the Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, is a monumental embroidery that tells the dramatic story of a moment that changed England forever. No year in the country’s history is more famous than 1066. It was the last time England was successfully invaded, and it is the year from which the modern monarchy dates itself.

Ms de Groot highlighted different aspects of the Tapestry and explained the different depictions of the truth – either in the tapestry, or held as opinions in history. She reminded students that an attitude of wanting to see both sides of an argument is a positive way of navigating differences of opinion in life and helps to create that Mind to Be Kind culture that we hold so dear at Bushey Meads.

She also linked the idea of peace to being sensible in unpicking truth – even in this generation with everything that is posted on social media (either globally or more close to home). Again, listening to other people’s opinions and not jumping to conclusions is key and aligns closely with our core value of Respect – one of our 3 Rs.

We don’t have to agree with everyone to get along – we just need to be considerate and kind.