Pupils from Castle Park School were given a truly memorable opportunity to represent Kendal and the South Lakes at this year’s Commonwealth Service, held at Westminster Abbey on Monday 9 March 2026.
The annual service brought together more than 1,800 guests, including around 700 school children from across the country, to celebrate the unity and diversity of the Commonwealth. The King led the national celebration, describing the Commonwealth as a “force for good” in his message to its 56 member states.
The service featured a vibrant and multicultural programme of readings, prayers, music and dance. Performances included steel pan musicians, dancers from the Royal Ballet School, and singers Indigo Marshall and Tarju Le’Sano, alongside a specially commissioned piece by composer Rekesh Chauhan. Well-known figures such as Geri Halliwell-Horner and Oti Mabuse also took part in the celebrations.
Members of the Royal Family, including The King and Queen, The Prince and Princess of Wales, and Princess Anne, were in attendance. They were joined by senior political figures, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, as well as religious leaders and representatives from across the Commonwealth.
Mr Stoker, Deputy Headteacher at Castle Park School, said:
“Our pupils had the most wonderful day attending the Commonwealth Service in Westminster Abbey. They were so excited to join in the celebrations and experience such a truly multicultural programme of events.”
In addition to attending the service, pupils enjoyed the chance to explore some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, the Palace of Westminster, Trafalgar Square and the London Eye, making the visit both educational and inspiring.
This special experience provided pupils with a unique insight into the values of the Commonwealth, celebrating diversity, unity and global connection, and is one they will remember for years to come.
