Students displayed their marching and presentation skills at the School’s annual inter-house drill competition, with Wellington House winning first place.

Major Tom Collins (Royal Signals), Warrant Officer II Mike Owen (Royal Engineers), both Dukies, and colleague Sergeant Shaun Heggie (Royal Engineers) judged the competition.

All pupils in years 8 to 13 took part this term, representing their respective houses, and the entire School took part in a parade 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.

Guest of honour Brigadier Niall Stokoe OBE, Head of the Army’s Information Services and a Dukie, presented the Drill Competition shield to Amo, Junior Under Officer of Wellington House. Holly, Junior Under Officer of Clive House, received the Baroness Thatcher Sword of Honour for being judged best Junior Under Officer of the Year. Good conduct stripes for best Year 8 student in each guard went to Alanbrooke: Skye; Marlborough: Carriad; Wolfe: Tadi; Clive: Alexia; Wellington: Stilyan; Wolseley: Reece; Roberts: Isaac; Kitchener: Keifer; Haig: Aadi.

Good conduct medals were presented to Prefect and Senior Under Officer Lewis, Chief School Prefect and Junior Under Officer Megan, Senior Prefect and Junior Under Officer Samuel, and Senior Prefect and Junior Under Officer Fiona.

Winning order

1st Wellington
2nd Clive
3rd Alanbrooke
4th Wolseley
5th Wolfe
6th Marlborough
7th Roberts
8th Haig
9th Kitchener

For photo of Drill Competition, please click here.