Pupils and staff at Aycliffe School welcomed military personnel on site over two days, ahead of VE Day on May 8th. VE - or Victory in Europe - Day marks the end of World War II on May 8th 1945.

On Wednesday, the festivities began with a special video message from veteran John Dennett who wished the pupils all the best and shared his personal memories of the day that the Second World War came to an end.

"Hello North East Autism Society," John said in his video message. "I understand you are celebrating VE Day and I hope you have a good time. On VE day when the war came to an end in Europe I was between ships and I was in Plymouth. I remember it very well and we celebrated.

"We will be celebrating again. I am going to Guernsey on May 8th to celebrate the end of the war with the people of Guernsey who were liberated on that day. I hope you all have a good time and thank you for remembering the veterans. And just look forward to a nice, long and happy life."

Pupils then took part in a whole-school assembly where military personnel introduced themselves and presented a PowerPoint. 

Gunner Matthew Newton, Lance Corporal Elychia Watson and Private Semisi Naqelevuki then delivered the following activities: 

• STEM activity to build a communications tower using giant Meccano pieces. Pupils had to work together to build the tower to the set specifications. 
• Giant Jungle map activity – used their observation skills to correctly create the map with visual markers
• Giant top trumps – military vehicle themed. Pupils matched vehicle pictures to the correct stats then identified which vehicle would be best for an identified scenario/mission
• Opportunity to dress up in military uniform

On Thursday, Captain Fiona Mcleod and Lance Corporal Rebecca Wilson visited the school. They delivered a first aid workshop where pupils were shown how to perform CPR, apply bandages and tourniquets.

Pupils also had the opportunity to ask them lots of questions about their career path and military history. 

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