Artwork created by talented students from West Coventry Academy has gone on show in a stunning project at the National Memorial Arboretum, which honours the often-overlooked history of Commonwealth soldiers.
More than 200 Year 9 students at the Tile Hill school submitted handmade pieces to be displayed at the Arboretum’s Guiding Lights exhibition – created in collaboration with renowned artist Mahtab Hussain – which launched this week.
After a fascinating assembly delivered by Mahtab and fellow artist Benny Semp in September, students were challenged to research the soldiers of the British Indian Army – known as the ‘Forgotten Army’ – and create uplifting artwork celebrating these often-unsung heroes, alongside soldiers from other Commonwealth countries.
The school’s subject Leader for Art Sue-Ann Greenshields said: “We were invited to take part in this incredible opportunity back in summer this year. We discussed it as an Art Department and immediately knew we wanted to get involved.
“The values Mahtab explores within his art, and particularly this project, mirror the values we promote here at WCA. It’s all about exploring identity, courage, sacrifice and belonging.
“As a school with a large multi-cultural student body, where diversity is our greatest strength, we knew our students would want to celebrate, draw attention to and honour the powerful message behind the Forgotten Army project.”
The project combined creativity with learning, as students immersed themselves in the histories of Commonwealth soldiers who fought in the World Wars.
Mrs Greenshields said: “They were guided to submerge themselves in the stories and legacies of these soldiers, finding letters, poems and news reports to understand the magnitude of their sacrifice.”
Alongside encouraging students to conduct their own research on this important topic, the Guiding Lights project offered some lucky Year 9 pupils the chance to work alongside Benny in four workshops at the school, which is part of the respected Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP).
Mrs Greenshields added: “Benny was so complimentary on our students’ maturity and attitudes, and he was particularly impressed by the depth of their research.
“He also said it was wonderful to see students who had links to Commonwealth countries themselves creating work to celebrate and honour their country’s contribution.”
West Coventry Headteacher Ana Neofitou attended the exhibition’s launch event last week.
She said: “It was wonderful to attend this thought-provoking event last Thursday. As Headteacher it was a proud moment to see our students’ work displayed as part of the exhibition.”
Mrs Greenshields said: “I think taking part in the Guiding lights project has offered our students far more than an artistic experience.
“It’s helped them grow personally, creatively and academically in several ways. They have developed a deeper understanding of history and the Forgotten Army, which has encouraged empathy, respect and a broader perspective of Remembrance.
“They have also developed a connection with contemporary art and a range of traditional and digital techniques.
“But most importantly, this project has been about personal reflection and pride in identity. More than 20,000 people are estimated to visit the exhibition, and our students are beaming with pride at being part of something significant beyond the classroom.”
The Guiding Lights exhibition is running at the National Memorial Arboretum from 5 December 2025 – 8 March 2026 and is a free event.
West Coventry Academy at National Memorial Arbortetum
