Uniformed Public Services celebrate 15th anniversary with spectacular passing out parade

The Red Devils landing with the college flag

6 More Image(s) In Gallery

The 15th anniversary of Uniformed Public Services course at Hopwood Hall College was celebrated in glorious sunshine with a spectacular passing out parade involving more than 170 students.

The event was attended by special guests including HM Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Warren Smith, Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale Councillor Keith Swift and Susanne Etchells, and representatives from the armed and civilian services such as GM Fire and Rescue Service, GM Police, Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and Royal Marines.

The ceremony included a stunning freefall parachute display from the “Red Devils”, the Parachute Regiment’s freefall display team, with music provided by the band of 1855 (Royton) Squadron, Air Training Corps.

Proud parents, former students of the course, service veterans, guests and college staff watched as the students performed intricately choreographed marching and physical fitness displays, which reflected the skills, team working and communication learned during their time on the course.

13 awards were given out for “best physical fitness”, “endeavour” and “outstanding student”. The “Spirit Award” in memory of Luke Jameson was given to 'Oscar Group', a second year tutor group.

Commenting on the 15 years of Uniformed Public Services at Hopwood Hall College, curriculum manager Terry Morley said: “The Uniformed Public Services courses at Hopwood Hall College go from strength to strength each year with recruitment going above target. I am fortunate to have a team of staff who bring wide and varied experiences of the armed and civilian services; so that our students have the best chance of progression to the service of their choice, and we are seeing increasing numbers entering university to study for a degree.

“I have no doubt that the Uniformed Public Services course at Hopwood Hall College is one of the best, if not the best, in the country as we are visited each year by many other colleges seeking to emulate our formula for success.”