Greater Brighton Metropolitan College has celebrated the official launch of its new CCF contingent.
On Wednesday 7 March, the college hosted a special parade, featuring all 71 cadets, to mark the launch of their Royal Navy CCF section.
The day began with the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant by Commodore David Elford, Naval Regional Commander for the East of England, and college CEO Nick Juba, to demonstrate the college’s support for the Armed Forces community.
The CCF cadets then paraded at the college’s Broadwater Campus, ready for inspection by Chief Inspecting Officer Commodore David Elford, who was also joined by fellow Armed Forces personnel and Chief Fire Officer Gavin Watts (the college also runs a successful fire cadets programme), watched by proud friends and family.
Commodore Elford then continued to officially open the new unit building for the CCF, based within the college grounds.
The building was originally earmarked for demolition, but with a number of successful funding applications, it has now been refurbished to house the successfully growing unit.
Commodore Elford said: “I would like to thank all those who have worked so hard over the last year to create the conditions which have led to its [CCF naval section] formation, and in particular I must congratulate the Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Neil Cockcroft, for his drive and enthusiasm.”
Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Neil Cockcroft, said: "I would like to thank the college for their continued support of the program, allowing it to flourish and grow. Our working partnerships with the Royal Navy and West Sussex Fire & Rescue have undoubtedly enhanced the opportunities and experiences afforded to our young people. The cadets should be extremely proud of their achievements and take full advantage of every opportunity that comes their way."
College CEO, Nick Juba, said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to demonstrate our commitment to the Armed Forces and showcase the achievements of our Uniformed Services students in such a visible and physical way.”
Photo credit: Stewart Turkington
