Dorchester school children lay flowers in tribute to the Queen
School Head says it's important to nurture empathy during this time
Primary school children in Dorset have laid flowers to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.
Joined by their headteacher, Gary Spracklen, and deputy headteacher, Corinne March, pupils from Prince of Wales School in Dorchester, laid a tribute to Her Majesty at the bandstand in the town's Borough Gardens.
Speaking on behalf of the school, Mr Spracklen said:
“We join the nation and the world in mourning the loss of HRH Queen Elizabeth II.
"She was a true inspiration to all and she will be missed greatly by the children and staff here at The Prince of Wales School."
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio Dorset, Mr Spracklen, explained how pupils are being supported during what is an historic moment, and spoke of the importance of allowing children to express their feelings during this time.
"We've been providing the children with the space in their lessons to reflect and to consider this momentous moment in history.
"And of course it's quite a strange time, because in one hand we're very sad of the death of a wonderful servant to this country, and on the other hand we're excited by a time of renewal with a new King and fresh opportunities.
"Our role has been to provide space for those (feelings), to explain that it's okay to feel what you feel, no matter what that is, and for some children of course that will be nothing - they will feel nothing - and that is fine as well, and that's the same for adults.
"There may also be a delayed response as children pick up and mirror the emotions shared by the adults around them."
Asked what advice he had for parents and carers, on how to explain what is going on while the country mourns for the late Queen, the school Head shared some tips - he says 'empathy' is key:
"If you're a parent you might want to explain that the country and the world will spend time now mourning together. And this is, of course, because many people will feel sad and want to show respect for who the Queen was.
"We can encourage young people to be empathetic, to think about how children and close friends of the Queen must be feeling during this sad time.
"I think empathy is such an important characteristic that we should seek to develop in our young people. No matter our view on the Monarchy, it's important that we are empathetic at this time."