The King’s School Canterbury CCF (Army) Take the Lead in Historic Ceremony

Celebrating its centenary year, the Ringing of the Bell ceremony is held every day in the Cathedral’s Warriors’ Chapel to remember those who have died in military service, as well as all victims of war. The ceremony is conducted by the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment (PWRR) in a tradition that began in 1926, and for the first time in history, The King’s School Canterbury CCF has been invited to take on the duties (which are normally conducted by a serving member of the Regiment or a veteran).

Each week, hundreds of tourists visit the World Heritage Site to watch the ceremony, during which, a page in the Book of Remembrance is turned, the bell of HMS Kent is rung, and a prayer is read by a cathedral chaplain.

It is a poignant, moving ceremony as the Book of Remembrance lists those who have died in military service whilst serving for the PWRR.

Working Together

The King’s School Canterbury CCF is proudly affiliated to the PWRR and maintains many of the regiment’s customs and traditions within their own CCF contingent. A 120 strong cadet contingent, The King’s School Canterbury focuses on challenging and adventurous activities that aim to prepare its cadets for future success. The cadet’s participation in the Ringing of the Bell ceremony is a testament to the values of leadership, discipline, service and tradition that is apparent in both the PWRR and the school’s CCF, as well as highlighting the important link between the community, the military and the CCF.

Cadet Sergeant Manney is one of the cadets leading the ceremony and comments “Taking part in the Ringing of the Bell ceremony has been such an honour. It means a great deal to be involved in remembering those from past generations. It feels especially meaningful when veterans come to watch, as it gives me the chance to speak with them about what the ceremony means to them. It has also been an invaluable learning experience: not only in perfecting the ceremony's drill but also having the confidence to perform with a large audience."

Cadet Colour Sergeant Robertson adds “Being part of such an important PWRR tradition is a truly amazing experience! Talking to veterans afterwards gave me moving insights into the brave servicepeople who lost their lives in conflict and who are honoured in the Book.”

Major Goddard, The King’s School Canterbury Contingent Commander added “Our cadets take great pride in their role performing this tradition, displaying exemplary standards of turnout, drill and discipline. The ceremony is not only an important act of remembrance for all victims of war but also maintains an important public link between the people of Kent and the armed forces.”

Congratulations to The King’s School Canterbury CCF on such a historic and poignant appointment.