It has been a busy spring for our Combined Cadet Force pupils, with events across the country. 
 

RGC staff member promoted to Captain in CCF

Captain Black was appointed Officer Commanding (Army Section) in November and hit the ground running, overseeing the Army Section's fantastic contribution to the Remembrance Day Service and Parade. She takes over from Captain Paul, and we extend our sincere thanks to him for his incredible 10 years at the helm as OC Army. Your dedication is truly appreciated, Captain Paul!

Kiltwalk: RGC Cadets raising funds for the tri-service charity SSAFA
Well done to the Schoolhill Striders! Through sunshine and showers, laughter and teamwork carried them every step of the way along the challenging 18-mile route from Banchory to Duthie Park. By taking on the ‘Mighty Stride’, they raised vital funds for SSAFA, the armed forces charity. Read more about their journey in our recent news.

RAF Leadership Cadre
During the Easter break, a dedicated group of RAF Cadets spent three days at Gordon Barracks developing crucial leadership skills. Through intensive Blue and Bronze level courses, they delved into effective briefing methods, leadership styles, and communication techniques. Their hard work culminated in practical assessments, where they successfully led teams through military-themed tasks. We are delighted to report that all cadets passed, with seven Blue badges and one Bronze badge awarded. 

Pipe Band performs for the 2025 Umbrella Project

Aberdeen Inspired partnered with the ADHD Foundation to create colourful umbrella installations across the city centre, raising awareness and celebrating the ‘umbrella’ term for neurodiversity, as well as the support available for individuals and families.  Read more about our participation in our recent news.

 

College community gathers to commemorate 80th VE Day

Across the College, members of the school community gathered to commemorate VE Day and to pay tribute to those who gave their lives during WWI and WWII. In a moving ceremony, our Combined Cadet Force laid wreaths at the war memorial and offered prayers in remembrance. 

Later that evening, the RGC Pipe Band concluded their VE Day duties by paying their respects a the Lighting of Beacon Peace outside Marischal College, performing to members of the public and the Lord Provost. 

However the commemorations did not stop there. From 28th April to 8th May 2025, one College piper performed daily at the war memorial outside Cowdray Hall, playing a specially commissioned pipe tune for the celebrations called Celebratum.. 

Junior Pipers Andrew and Larry also participated in a service held in the Memorial Garden at the Gordon Highlanders Museum. 

 

Beating the Retreat - Edinburgh

Alongside the Massed Pipes, Drums, and Highland Dancers of the Combined Cadet Force in Scotland, the RGC Pipe Band and Highland Dancers performed in the Ceremony of Beating Retreat. This prestigious event took place on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle and at the Palace of Holyrood House. 

Congratulations to our Senior Drum Major, Leo (S6), who was selected to lead both parades for the second time in his CCF career. He first made history in 2022 as the youngest person, aged 14 years, to lead the parades. What a memorable moment for his final year at school.

Spectators included distinguished guests Major General Bob Bruce, CBE, DSO, Governor of Edinburgh Castle, and the Rt Hon Lady Elish Angiolini LT, DBE, KC, Lord High Commissioner.