Longwell Green Primary School was chosen as a stop on the world’s longest global torch relay.
It meant that pupils had the chance to handle a peach torch that has been held by international figures such as the late Queen Elizabeth and Nelson Mandela.
The Peace Run, which has travelled to over 150 countries and territories since its founding in 1987, gives children and adults the chance to express their hopes for peace and unity.
The flaming Peace Torch has been held by millions worldwide, including Mother Teresa, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Mo Farah, Pope Francis, Paula Radcliffe, Billie Jean King, Helena Bonham Carter, Presidents, Prime Ministers, and countless people from everyday life.
Headteacher Darren Brown said the visit of the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run, was a huge honour.
“Out of the many schools they could have chosen, they asked to visit ours. As a school we deeply believe in nurturing every child to be compassionate and thoughtful global citizens, this visit means so much to each of us. Every child was inspired to think about how to make the world a better and more peaceful place through their own actions, and they could see how each of us can make a difference.”
Runners from across Europe arrived at the school carrying the Peace Torch and delivered an assembly on the themes of harmony, friendship, and peace. The visit was filled with music, humour, and powerful stories. Pupils shared artwork and messages they had created around peace, some of which may later go on display at an exhibition in Rome.
The Peace Run is coordinated by volunteers and carries no political or fundraising agenda.
Mr. Brown added: “It’s not every day your pupils get to be part of something that links them to children and people across the whole world. It reminds us all that peace starts with the actions of each of us, especially children.”
To learn more about the Peace Run, visit https://www.peacerun.org