On Thursday 5th October selected Risedale pupils were invited to take part in a Remembrance-themed art workshop organised by Service Children’s Champion, Angela Campbell. The workshop focused on creating a collection of poppy mandalas that will be showcased at Ripon Cathedral during the Festival of Remembrance on 10th November. Angela is collaborating with numerous local schools to create a large artwork display for the festival featuring the poppy mandalas.

Head of Art, Ms Westwood, said,

“The pupils had only two hours to create as many mandalas as possible, using special dot-making tools to apply patterns onto red circles. They were shown how the mandalas would then be used to create lots of 3D circular structures, each representing a poppy. The pupils loved making them and are so proud to have been able to contribute to an event which means so much to our community. We’re proud of them too and can’t wait to see the final, beautiful display!”

Year 9 pupil Daniel Hibbins said,

“It has been a lovely way to remember the sacrifices that have been made by service personnel, to make my world a better place.”

Risedale School’s Service Children's Advocate, Mrs Porritt, commented,

“My thanks go to all the pupils who participated in the workshop. What a lovely creative way to produce a poppy for the upcoming service at Ripon Cathedral. It is always such a special event.”

On Facebook, Service Children's Champion, Angela Campbell, said,

"What an absolute joy it has been working with schools like Risedale School. Every young person that I have met over the last couple of weeks has blown me away with their imagination, creativity and positivity. Every poppy-inspired mandala that has been created is completely unique. Thank you Risedale School for sharing these lovely photos! #bestpartofmyjob"