His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh presided over the presentation of new Banners* at Harrow School - a significant occasion symbolising identity, service, and duty. The parade brought together Harrovians and Old Harrovians, staff, governors, military representatives, and invited guests.
His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh presents new Banners at Harrow School at start of National Cadets Week
On parade were cadets from Harrow School, John Lyon School and Harrow High School.
His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, whose arrival was heralded by the School Pipers and Brass Fanfare, enjoyed a packed morning of activities, celebrating the achievements of Harrovians who have completed their Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, hearing about the experiences behind their success. His Royal Highness also met representatives from Shaftesbury Enterprise long-term partner schools, St Anselm's Catholic Primary School and Roxeth Primary School, and learned about initiatives designed to improve educational outcomes and broaden opportunities for local children.
To end the visit The Duke joined the whole School in Speech Room for Harrow Songs - a favourite of Sir Winston Churchill.
Alastair Land, Head Master, Harrow School said, “We were delighted to welcome His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh to Harrow to present our new Banners - a celebration of our proud heritage and a powerful symbol of the values that continue to guide our cadets and wider community. It was a wonderful opportunity to honour Harrow’s traditions while highlighting the CCF’s vital role in fostering character, leadership, challenge and opportunity.
Paul Gamble, Headteacher, Harrow High School commented, "Our partnership with the Harrow Rifle Corps has been established for nearly 20 years and over that time, approximately 500 young people have benefited greatly from this. Every week our young men and women from a wide range of backgrounds train alongside Harrovians in fieldcraft, leadership and teamwork, as well as taking part in joint exercises and residential opportunities. Through this they demonstrate excellence and develop the skills to step into senior roles and instruct younger cadets themselves. We are proud of all that our cadets have achieved over the years and grateful to Harrow's commitment to the partnership, and for the confidence, discipline and sense of belonging it gives our students.”
Murray, a Harrow School Royal Marine Cadet said, “Being part of the CCF has been a hugely rewarding part of my time at Harrow. It has helped me develop my leadership and teamwork skills while giving me the opportunity to support younger cadets. From training with the Royal Marines at Lympstone to competing in the Pringle Trophy, I’ve had experiences I’ll never forget.
Taking part in the Guard of Honour for His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh’s visit was particularly exciting and I am very proud to have represented both the CCF and the School on such a significant occasion.”
*known as Colours in British Army units.
National Cadets Week
National Cadets Week takes place from 5 to 11 October, the week offers schools a chance to showcase the experiences, skills and opportunities provided through the CCF. Find out more and download the National Cadets Week toolkit.