A Night to Remember with Ark Alexandra Academy CCF!

Ark Alexandra Academy CCF proudly hosted its annual Regimental Dinner, a distinguished event organised and led by the cadets. This year saw over 100 attendees, with cadets being able to invite a guest each, so that they could be joined by their loved ones to celebrate their recent achievements.

Contingent Commander Nicholas Burchell, Ark Alexandra Academy CCF, commented “The Regimental Dinner remains a highlight in the cadet’s social calendar - it is a remarkable celebration of the achievements and commitment of our cadets. The event helps to show the strong support of families, and the professionalism of the cadet officers, who attended in full mess dress. Guests arrived in elegant black-tie attire, which contributed to the sense of formality and pride that defines this annual tradition. The evening was a resounding success and a testament to the hard work, organisation, and dedication of all involved - -cadets, staff, students, and families alike.”

Celebrations and Special Moments

Guests were greeted on arrival with canapés and treated to live musical performances from guest singer Lissie Lark. The evening followed traditional military dinner night proceedings, with guests standing at their seats until the arrival of Senior Officers and staff, who were formally welcomed before the meal commenced.

Ark Alexandra Academy CCF use the Regimental Dinner Nights as a chance for students to complete the volunteering section of their Bronze or Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award by serving the three-course meal to the cadets and the guests. The entire catering was produced by the school’s Catering Manager and his team, who were supported by year 10 GCSE Hospitality students and their teacher.

The Regimental Dinner Nights also give the cadets the chance to experience and learn about formal dinner night protocol and traditional military customs. They are also a great opportunity for cadets to develop confidence and social skills, allowing them to spend time with their peers outside of parade nights, in a fun, shared experience.

The meal was formally opened with Grace, delivered by Cadet Sergeant Pippa Styring, followed by The King’s Toast, presented by Cadet Corporal Jasper O’Sullivan.

Following the meal, Captain Burchell delivered the annual afterdinner speech, reflecting on the achievements and dedication of the cadets over the past year. And there was a lot to celebrate, after the contingent recently won Combat Stress Cadet Unit of the Year 2025, which they were awarded for raising over £37,000 for the charity.

A huge thank you to Captain Burchell and the contingent’s adult volunteers and cadets for sharing this wonderful experience with us!