Ratcliffe College signs the Armed Forces Covenant

Ratcliffe College has received the Armed Forces Bronze Employer Recognition award, accredited by the Ministry of Defence as part of its Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. The scheme encourages employers to support the Armed Forces Community, whilst inspiring others to do the same.

The College applied for the award after Mr Walters, Contingent Commander, was contacted by the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations (RFCA) team, who thought Ratcliffe College met the expectations to qualify.

Mr Walters said, “The Armed Forces Covenant is important to Ratcliffe College because it demonstrates our commitment and support to all of those that serve.

“The Covenant represents an assurance from the school to consider the Armed Forces, their personnel, families, and children. It is particularly pertinent to boarding where we take care of service children.”

To meet the Bronze Award criteria, Ratcliffe signed the Armed Forces Covenant in November 2022, becoming the 900^th company to sign in the East Midlands. The College has a CCF unit with 8 Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAV), and around 100 cadets across both: The Army and RAF section. Ratcliffe continues to support the CCF, providing an on-site range for cadets, an adventurous training stall with kit and a hangar, with links to the Royal Anglians and are very proud to show the support for those that serve.

During the signing, Mr Reddin, Headmaster commented, “It is very important for the College to recognise, not just those giving up their time for the CCF, but also to recognise over the last 175 years that the College has always had an association with the Armed Forces.

“This is something we are very proud of and is something that came into sharp focus after our Remembrance Service in our Chapel, which was a very moving and special occasion. I think this is most fitting to be following our Remembrance Day service and thoughts for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.”

As Bronze Award holders, Ratcliffe College pledge to support the Armed Forces, including existing and eventual employees that are members of the community. This group of employees can vary from Reservists, Veterans, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and the families of those currently serving.

The College currently offers a 10% discount on school fees to HM Forces personnel in receipt of the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA), directly helping those who otherwise might not be able to access the opportunities afforded by an education at Ratcliffe College.

Click here to find out more about boarding at Ratcliffe