Ceremonial

Ceremonial Parades and Marching Band

Our ceremonial Parades and magnificent 90-strong Marching Band make our military school unique and are a time honoured way for pupils to celebrate military tradition, culminating in a full Trooping the Colour ceremony on our spectacular Grand Day. Pupils proudly wear the Cap Badge of their parent in the forces on their Dress Blues, over their heart. It is a poignant recognition of their own military heritage, and reminds each child that he or she is unique and special.

Regimental Sergeant Major

Drill isn’t about discipline – it is a 280-year-old tradition, and for military parents it is a tangible connection between their child and their job. Under the watchful eye of our Regimental Sergeant Major – late Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment with 24 years’ regular service - our drill practices have been modernised to stay in line with British Army Infantry drill. Every child in the school plays their part, and military and non-military parents alike never fail to be impressed with the high standards achieved on the Parade ground.

Royal Military Academy Sandhurst’s motto ‘Serve To Lead’

We echo the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst’s motto ‘Serve To Lead’, and school provides a platform for young men and women to be leaders. Every pupil is given the opportunity to take a leadership role at some point in their school career, teaching invaluable people skills and often bringing out hidden qualities. Our system is underpinned by the principles of promotion and progression, giving every child opportunities to excel at something. The important academic and pastoral roles of Prefects and Head Boy and Girl are only filled after competitive interviews.

CCF Ceremonial Officers

CCF Ceremonial Officers are chosen the same way, and the number of Year 13 pupils applying always exceeds the number of vacancies. We take up references before making each appointment to ensure the individual is achieving a rank suitable to their age and level of responsibility. Our Non Commissioned Officers and Under Officers are selected because they already show character and the ability to inspire others. We develop those qualities through every aspect of school life, from ceremonial and House duties to classroom interaction and sports teams. Only the support of our military-orientated staff makes this possible.