A Holocaust survivor has celebrated a remarkable achievement by giving his 1,000th talk to schools and community organisations.

Steven Frank BEM has been visiting Wood Green School in Witney for almost thirty years, sharing his life story with Year 9 pupils.

Frank, who suffered in Nazi concentration camps as a young child, has devoted his life to educating young people about Holocaust horrors and the importance of commemoration and acceptance.

Pupils have heard direct accounts of events usually only found in textbooks through his descriptions of imprisonment, hardship, and fear.

Frank spent the entire Second World War detained at Theresienstadt in Czechoslovakia and speaks for approximately 150 children who survived out of around 14,000 who passed through that location.

In acknowledgement of his work, the school presents the Steven Frank Trophy to a Year 9 student who demonstrates the school’s values through helping the community and supporting others.

The award, designed by local sculptor Christopher Townsend, takes the shape of a sycamore tree sculpture.

This imagery reflects the Terezin sycamore tree at the school, a direct descendant of the tree tended by children at Terezin, which Frank donated in 2017.

Every year, a new leaf featuring the winner’s name is attached to the sculpture.

This year, Frank turned 90 while also completing his 1,000th presentation to schools and groups.

To mark these occasions, the school is gathering messages from the school community to present to Frank.

The collection will include thoughts, thanks, and personal messages from past and present pupils, as well as parents, carers, and staff members who have been moved by his talks.

Ella Townsend, who handles the library and social media at the school, spoke about the deep impact Frank’s presentations have had on pupils.

She said that for today’s young people, Frank’s experiences of imprisonment, hunger, and terror can seem almost impossible to grasp.

Through his visits, Frank ensures that historical lessons remain vivid and personal for current students, and that those who suffered are never forgotten.

Frank’s story continues to inspire and educate new generations, keeping Holocaust awareness alive among young people.

Anyone who has previously attended one of Frank’s presentations and would like to submit a message can send it to mrfrankbook@wgswitney.org.uk by Wednesday 29 April.