The Duke of York’s Royal Military School marked its annual Grand Day with a spectacular celebration that combined tradition, student achievement, and historic milestones: the 200th anniversary of the School being granted Colours and 30-years of being a co-educational school.
Scenes From the Day
The day began in Nye Hall, the School’s performing arts centre, where students were honoured during the Prize Giving Ceremony for their exceptional academic and sporting achievements. The event showcased the School’s commitment to excellence and exceptional education.
The day’s programme featured a rich blend of military tradition; highlights included a powerful Gurkha Khukuri Display and Pipes and Drums musical performance, a parachute display by The Red Devils, followed by the School’s Corps of Drums display, all of which captivated the 2,000 guests.
The Red Devils parachute display
The centrepiece of the celebration was the Trooping the Colour, with around 470 students in full ceremonial uniform. This year’s ceremony held special significance, commemorating 200 years since the School was first granted Colours in recognition of its distinguished military heritage.
This year’s Grand Day also marked another important milestone, 30 years since the School became co-educational. The occasion was used to celebrate the achievements and contributions of Dukie women, past and present, recognising the vital role they have played in shaping the School’s identity. A special tribute honoured the School’s pioneering female students, while current female Dukies were proudly represented across all elements of the day’s programme, from ceremonial duties to prize winners and performers.
Our Military Band and Corps of Drums
The Guest of Honour, His Excellency Ambassador Jeroen Cooreman, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the United Kingdom, inspected the parade and addressed the school community, praising the students for their exemplary conduct and achievements.
Alex Foreman, Principal of DOYRMS, commented:
“Grand Day is the pinnacle of our school year – a powerful showcase of our students’ talents, our historic traditions, and the values that define us. This year’s celebration was especially meaningful, as we marked two centuries since we were first granted Colours. I am immensely proud of our students for delivering a truly exceptional event that reflects the spirit and excellence of our school.”
