Royal Military School
It was a day of pride, tradition, and new beginnings at The Duke of York’s Royal Military School, as new students donned their ceremonial berets for the very first time. The annual Beret Parade, one of the school’s most significant and symbolic events, marks the official moment when new students become part of the Dukie family.
This year’s ceremony carried extra prestige with the attendance of HRH The Duke of Kent, who served as Guest of Honour. His Royal Highness personally presented berets to the incoming Year 7 students, welcoming them into the school’s proud military tradition. In a touching full-circle moment, he was also reunited with the Year 13 cohort, to whom he had presented berets back in 2019 when they first arrived as new recruits themselves.
The parade was inspected by Principal Alex Foreman and His Majesty’s Deputy Lieutenant of Kent, Mr Nick Marden LVO D. After weeks of parade training, guided by Sixth Form mentors — the new Dukies marched out with confidence before an audience of proud families, staff, and fellow students. The applause that followed reflected not only their hard work but also the deep camaraderie that defines life at the school.
Senior students also took on their leadership roles during the ceremony, including Senior Under Officer Iliesa Nalewabau, Deputy Senior Under Officer Ambika Gurung, Student Regimental Sergeant Major George Overy, Drum Major Omodele Adepoju, Bugle Major Harriet Higgs, and Stick Orderlies Izzy Gurung, Nobira Pun, Mabel Modzaka, and Jesika Gurung.
While students wear their regular uniforms throughout the week, the ceremonial beret forms a key part of the school’s No.1 Dress (Blues), a proud nod to its military roots. Many students also choose to wear a ‘heart badge’, the cap badge of a family member who has served, as a heartfelt tribute to their own military heritage.
Principal Alex Foreman reflected on the day:
“Our military ceremonies honour our heritage and ethos, instilling pride, discipline, and character in every student. Having His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, in attendance made this year’s Beret Parade especially meaningful, and we are immensely proud of all our new Dukies as they begin their journey.”
For the students of The Duke of York’s Royal Military School, a full, weekly, and flexi boarding school for ages 11 to 18, the moment they receive their beret is more than just a tradition. It’s the beginning of a lifelong identity as a Dukie, part of a community that continues to grow and thrive through its strong alumni network and shared sense of belonging.
To learn more about the school and its heritage, visit www.doyrms.com.
