Havant & South Downs College students marched with pride at the Passing Off ceremony at Fort Purbrook on Thursday.
Students from the Uniformed and Public Services courses took part in the celebration on 21 June, which for many marked the end of their course at HSDC.
The parade is a celebration of all the students’ hard work, endeavour and determination to be successful. It recognises the many hours of hard work spent working in their teams developing their skills.
The ceremony included an impressive section attack shooting display carried out by the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), witnessed by a crowd of supporting friends and family.
Vice Principal Richard Barlow said: “As the leading provider locally for education and training for careers in Uniformed and Public Services I am so proud to have been invited to attend this year’s Pass Off Parade.
“This event is a culmination of a huge amount of hard work from the students and for some it marks the completion of their course. It is wonderful that we can share this day with the students’ friends and family to celebrate their successes.
“To have had so many representatives from the services with us today demonstrates the excellent links we have established with employers in this area.”
Awards were handed out after the march, which saw Skye Holdaway, Lauren Woodward and Lewis Norris win ‘Most Improved’ and Callum Bourne and Callum Sharpe win ‘Top Student’ across the Level 1, 2 and 3 groups.
The Uniformed Services Top Troop award went to Level 3 Stirling Troop and the Uniformed Services Endeavour Award was handed to Ivan Austin. The Yvonne Elliot Award was given to Liam Kelly.
Director of Curriculum Ash Grute said: “What is really special about today is that the friends and family of our students can share the day with us.
“I think this is a testament to my staff, they work so hard not just today but throughout the year to give students the best possible experience and to prepare them for the best possible career in the services.
“In terms of the students, it is a fantastic day for them to celebrate their achievements and to look back at all they have achieved this year.”
Joining in on the ceremony and commending the students’ hard work were dignitaries SSGT Jonnie Old 6 Regiment AAC, MJR Dave Love RMP and Firefighter Paul Kinneavy 1237 Green Watch Southsea.
The Uniformed and Public Service courses at Havant & South Downs College give students a thorough introduction into service life, its customs, traditions and procedures. For more information on the Uniformed and Public Service courses, click here.