A moving visit from an 84-year-old Jewish man and Holocaust educator has left a lasting impression on school pupils.
Garnett Alderson visited The Chantry School in Martley on Friday, October 2, to share his personal connection to the Holocaust and donate more than 40 books on the subject to the school library.
Mr Alderson has now donated more than £6,000 worth of Holocaust literature to 13 schools as part of a personal project funded from his own pension, he aims to reach four more schools.
He carefully selects each title, reading them himself before choosing which to include.
Ms Thomas described the visit as ‘a memorable moment’ for the pupils (Image: The Chantry School)
During his visit, he spoke with senior pupil leaders about his motivations and about a close friend, Lily Ebert, who survived the Holocaust but passed away two years ago.
Sasha Thomas, a history teacher at The Chantry School, said: “Pupils were given a rare and moving opportunity to hear personal stories connected to the Holocaust when they welcomed a very special visitor to the school.”
“The pupils were deeply moved by what they heard, asked thoughtful questions and responded with maturity, compassion and respect.”
Mr Alderson became emotional as he spoke about Ms Ebert and the importance of keeping survivors’ stories alive.
The donated books, worth more than £600, have been given a dedicated display in the school library.
Alderson donated 40 books to the school library (Image: The Chantry School)
Mr Alderson hopes to continue expanding the collection at The Chantry School and supporting other schools in the future.
Ms Thomas added: “Mr Alderson’s generosity will leave a lasting legacy at the school.
“It helps to ensure that pupils today and in the future continue to learn about the Holocaust and, most importantly, remember the individual stories of those who experienced it.”
The school said the visit was a “heartwarming and thought-provoking” experience for everyone involved.
The Chantry School is encouraging pupils to explore the new collection and learn more about the individual experiences behind the history of the Holocaust.
