On Sunday 9 November 2025, pupils, staff and guests gathered in reflection for the annual Remembrance Sunday service to commemorate all those who have lost their lives in armed conflict, including former pupils (OKS) and staff of the school. 

Cadets from the School's Combined Cadet Force (CCF) assembled a traditional drumhead altar on Memorial Court: a practice dating back to the 18th century, when regimental drums were stacked and draped with the Colours to create a makeshift place of worship for soldiers on campaign. 

Shell pupils read aloud the names of 166 former members of the King’s community who gave their lives during the First World War. The Last Post, performed by pupil trumpeters, marked the beginning of the two-minute silence.

This year's service was particularly poignant as it marked the 100th anniversary of the unveiling of the King's School Great War memorial which occurred on 11 November 1925. Part of the speech made by Archbishop Randall Davidson on that day was read out. 

It is our proud bereavement, in deliberate hope, to commemorate the achievements of these great years in the doings of our Country's sons, and to-day particularly in the history, the present-day history, of our great School. Could we do it any way more fitly than by setting in the midst of our School life this upstanding Cross which was solemnly dedicated four years ago? And now we have added, upon our grey wall, the record which preserves for the generations which are hereafter to spend their school years here the names of those whom the School delighteth to honour.

- An extract from Archbishop Randall Davidson's speech, 11 November 2025 

Poppy wreaths were laid at the memorial by the Captain of School, Vice-Captain of School and members of staff. Edward Holman (MR 1963-68) laid a wreath on behalf of the OKS Association.

To mark the end of the service, each pupil, member of staff and guest removed their poppy, placed it in a collection box at the memorial and walked in quiet contemplation around the Green Court, passing members of the CCF positioned along the way.

You can view the Remembrance Sunday 2025 Order of Service here.

You can learn more about The King's School Canterbury War Records by visiting our Roll of Honour website.