Cowley Academy proud to be part of Matthew Flinders celebrations
Cowley Academy proud to be part of Matthew Flinders celebrations
Our school is excited to be taking part in the Matthew Flinders ‘Bring Him Home’ event that will be taking place on Saturday 13th July 2024.
The event has been organised to commemorate and celebrate the 250th birthday and homecoming of Matthew Flinders and involves the whole community of Donington.
Matthew Flinders is one of Donington’s most famous residents who had an illustrious naval career having sailed to and mapped Australia. Born in Donington in 1774 he went to Donington Free School, now Cowley Academy and why our school has a Flinders House. He is still remembered around the globe for his naval achievements.
Students and staff have been busy over the last few months as our school has been involved in many ways. KS4 students have been preparing artwork to be displayed at the party plus for the Church service, the school choir has been rehearsing songs and students preparing readings.
We hope everyone will be getting involved with the activities on the day and also supporting our students.
Below is a timeline for Saturday 13th July 2024:
The church bells will start to ring throughout the day.
The Party in the Park team welcome everyone to a day of fun in Donington where the streets will be full of bunting and decorated shops and homes as you can visit the popular village market. Flinders Park and the marquee is home to many events throughout the day, such as fairground rides & games, competitions, children’s disco, tug of war, a history of Matthew Flinders in the library as well as food and drink.
Captain Flinders will start the journey home as his hearse will arrive at Station Street Roundabout to Cowley Academy Sports Field, Quadring Road. At about 2pm the hearse will arrive at Church Street by the butchers.
Livestream will be available in the marquee in Flinders Park for anyone who wishes to watch from there. Also available on the MFBHH YouTube channel. This will cover the main service will be from 2.30pm and include a presentation ceremony.
Matthew Flinders will be carried through Church Street, to parade to the Church joined on route by the clergy led by the Bishop, Church Wardens, a Navy Guard of Honour and Sea Cadets. At the Church there will be a display of Naval Standards / RNA Guard of Honour and a parade of Sea Cadets.
Church service for invited attendees and family.
Service, presentations and ceremony expected to be completed as events continue in the village into the evening.
Music through the ages in Flinders Park.
Fireworks to complete a fabulous day.
Further information about Matthew Flinders and the event is available from www.matthewflinders.net