Judges were led by Major (Retd) F. Howell of the Royal Hospital Chelsea Captain of Invalids and late Irish Guards. Assisting him were Chelsea Pensioners Captain James Frost MBE (Royal Signals) and Dukie, Staff Sergeant Alfred Hunt (Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers), Warrant Officer David Goodwin (Royal Corps of Transport), and Warrant Officer David Coote (Grenadier Guards).

 

Those in Years 8 to 13 took part, representing their respective Houses, and all students paraded at the end of the day, led by the School's military band.

 

Marks were awarded in five categories: Inspection, Turnings, Quick Time, Slow Time and March Past. However, marks were deducted for any instances of dirty or poorly-pressed uniforms, loose belts, unclean brasses, grubby shoes, long or untidy hair, or incorrectly knotted ties.

 

The final prize-giving and inspecting officer was Colonel Andy Thorne, Programme Director of two significant Army infrastructure programmes and Chair of the MOD’s European Local Children Safeguarding Board. He is also the school’s Chair of Governors and has three children at DOYRMS. Receiving the Drill Competition Shield was Jere, Junior Under Officer of the winners Alanbrooke House who will now have the honour of Trooping the Colour at our impressive Grand Day in July; second place went to Kitchener and third to Marlborough.

 

Founded in 1803, the School is the only one in England and Wales to enjoy the Royal privilege of holding colours (granted in 1825 by King George IV) and marching them through the ranks; this only happens in infantry regiments.

 

David of Wellington House, received the Baroness Thatcher Sword of Honour for being judged best Junior Under Officer of the Year by his peers. Good conduct stripes for the best Year 8 student in each guard went to Harriet (Alanbrooke), Iona (Marlborough), Destiny (Wolfe), Ella (Clive), Sohil (Wellington), Niraj (Wolseley), Kris (Roberts), Sakses (Kitchener), and IIiesa (Haig).
 
Good conduct medals were presented to, silver: Chief School Prefect and Junior Under Officer Ruth; bronze: Senior Prefect and Junior Under Officer Rueben, Senior Prefect and Junior Under Officer Sebastian, and Senior Under Officer Felix.

 

Principal Alex Foreman said: “Great teamwork and precision are the hallmarks of our keenly contested Drill Competition which brings the School together to celebrate our military ethos and rich Dukie history. It was also a privilege to welcome such an experienced team of judges.”

For images of the event, please click here.