Today Year 7 and Year 8 pupils at Lingfield Notre Dame School welcomed Nicholas Soames, MP for Mid-Sussex into their classroom. Mr Soames came to talk about his memories of his grandfather Sir Winston Churchill, who has been the subject of the Lower School Curriculum "Great Lives" module. From the high (and low) points of his long and distinguished career to his great love for animals and the pivotal role of his wife Clemmie, Mr Soames painted a fascinating picture of a truly great Briton.

Caitlin Branagh, a Year 8 student asked Mr Soames, “Do you think that set backs such as Gallipoli and the 1945 General Election were crucial in moulding Winston Churchill’s later legacy?” Mr Soames explained that like all great historical figures, Churchill experienced huge highs and lows, changes of fortune political and personal. However, his personal motto of ‘never give up’ allowed him to reflect, learn from and overcome the more negative experiences in his life.

The pupils also enjoyed the more personal anecdotes of life at Chartwell Manor with his grandfather. He spoke proudly of Churchill’s love and skill at painting, craftsmanship and writing, which are all evident at Chartwell Manor today. He also remembered fondly the fun and play they shared. He was after all, not simply a huge national figurehead, but also someone’s grandfather, and Mr Soames and the pupils talked fondly of the special relationship between child and grandparent.

Suzanne Milivojevic, Head of History at Lingfield Notre Dame School said, “It has been wonderful to bring history to life for our students. Mr Soames was hugely engaging and the children feel privileged to have met him.”

Mrs Sue Rutherford, Chair of Governors and Mr Jon Wale, Head of External Relations at Lingfield Notre Dame School, led the welcome and vote of thanks.

Lingfield Notre Dame School is grateful to Mr Soames for taking time out of his busy parliamentary schedule to come to the School.