The Phoenix Collegiate celebrate successful CCF growth
Our Association is proud to work with Combined Cadet Forces across our six counties, supporting their growth and championing the value and benefits that they can bring to young people. One Combined Cadet Force – The Phoenix Collegiate CCF based in West Bromwich – is an example of a CCF that has thoroughly embraced the development opportunities available to its staff and students. …
From Forces to Future Leaders: A personal journey from Service to Senior Leadership in education
“Transitioning from military life to a civilian career can feel daunting, especially when you’re unsure how your experience will translate.” Squadron Leader Luke Horobin, a senior leader at The Phoenix Collegiate, shares his journey from a military to civilian career with us. In the article below, he talks about the qualifications he has since gained, and why having the support of his employer…
ESCO Maritime Solutions Publicly Signs Armed Forces Covenant
ESCO Maritime Solutions proudly hosted a public signing ceremony to formalise its pledge to the Armed Forces Covenant, reinforcing its dedication to supporting members of the UK Armed Forces community. The event, held at ESCO’s headquarters, brought together senior leadership, employees, and representatives from the Ministry of Defence to witness the company’s commitment to ensuring fair treatment and opportunity for those who serve,…
Introducing our new Deputy Chief Executive
Adding to a summer of senior leadership staff changes, at the end of August we bid farewell to our Deputy Chief Executive, Major (Retired) Melanie Young, as she set off ready to enjoy retirement. We sincerely thank Melanie for her dedication, leadership and direction as Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Cadets and Youth for 26 years and eight months. A well-earned opportunity…
Gold standard employers celebrated at 2025 Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Awards
On 23rd October 2025, nineteen organisations from across the wider West Midlands region gathered in Shropshire to receive their Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Awards, acknowledging their outstanding support for the Armed Forces community. The prestigious ceremony took place once again at Lilleshall House and Gardens – home to one of the UK’s National Sports Centres and the Royal British Legion’s Battle…
Celebrating Gold Winners for Outstanding Support to the Armed Forces Community
More than 200 employers from across the UK – spanning FTSE 100 companies, emergency services, local councils and high street names – have been recognised with the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award for their exceptional commitment to the Armed Forces community. The Gold Award is the highest badge of honour for employers who go above and beyond in supporting Defence and…
37th Signal Regiment hit the mark
Congratulations to the 37th Signal Regiment shooting team who finished 3rd at the 1 (UK) Divisional Operational Shooting Competition (OSC). Taking place from 8th – 11th June at the Altcar Training Camp, the Regiment had notable team and individual achievements: 37th Signal Regiment A Team – 3rd overall and winners of the Short Range Rural Contact Assessment 37th Signal Regiment B Team –…
Top level changes for West Midland RFCA leadership team
A new leadership team is bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to our Association after the election of a new Chair and the appointment of a new Chief Executive. Over the summer, Major General John Crackett retired from the role of Chair after providing the Association with a successful five years of leadership and support. Taking over as Association Chair is Colonel Francis Acton….
French adventure for the Khalsa Academy CCF
Students and Cadets from the Khalsa Academy Combined Cadet Force (CCF) in Wolverhampton recently embarked on an unforgettable visit to France. They explored France’s rich culture, made (and sampled) famous French sweets and savouries, practised their language skills, and learnt about marine conversation and military history. A moving movement of the trip saw their students pay their respects to the fallen at the…
101 Battalion REME take part in flag raising and fairways action
Armed Forces Week In June members of Walsall-based 159 Theatre Support Company, 101 Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) were invited to local flag raising ceremonies and events to celebrate Reserves Day and Armed Forces Day. Their Reservists attended a flag raising ceremony in Walsall led by one of the Deputy Lieutenants for the West Midlands and the Lord Mayor of Walsall….
