I have been asked by my headteacher to find some "tear-jerking" pieces for children (aged 7 to 11) to perform at the end of year Speech Day. She apparently wants all the mums and dads to have their handkerchieves out - and I have been left with very little time to arrange this !

I have already lined up an extract from Laurie Lee, "Cider With Rosie" (his first day at school), a couple of poems about different stages in learning to read, and Allan Ahlberg's "Goodbye Old School", I have thought of maybe using the Irish blessing "May be road rise to meet you", although it is not specifically about leaving school.

I think someone once posted an atmospheric poem(or song)on here about an empty classroom - I've searched all possible options here and it hasn't come to light.

I'd be very grateful for your suggestions.
Thanking you all in advance,
- jeanie