Unveiling the Wolf Sculpture in Memory of Mr. Ben Allen
On Saturday 12th July, the Cliffe Woods Primary School community came together to honour the life and legacy of one of its most beloved teachers, Mr. Ben Allen. The occasion marked the unveiling of a stunning wolf sculpture, a powerful and personal tribute that now stands in the school’s Discovery Garden.
Crafted over two and a half years by Ben’s father, Lester Allen, the sculpture is more than a work of art. It’s a symbol of everything Ben stood for: strength, loyalty, kindness, and imagination. In many ways, it perfectly captures the spirit of Ben’s classroom, a place where stories came to life, music filled the air, and every child felt a sense of belonging.
Ben was known for his infectious enthusiasm and his ability to turn even the most ordinary lessons into something unforgettable. Whether it was through his love of fantasy worlds, his eclectic playlist, or the warm, welcoming atmosphere he created, he left a mark on every student lucky enough to be in his care.
Fittingly, his class was named the Wolf Class, a nod to the values he championed: community, courage, and always looking out for one another. The wolf now watching over the garden is a reminder of that legacy, and of a teacher who truly led his pack with heart.
The unveiling was attended by the Mayor of Medway, Trevor Clarke, alongside Ben’s parents, school leaders Mrs. Connolly and Mr. Kotze. It was a moving celebration of a life lived with passion, purpose, and love.
As generations of children pass through the Discovery Garden, may this sculpture spark their curiosity, stir their imagination, and remind them, as Ben always did, to be brave, be kind, and believe in the magic of learning.
