Derby’s UTC takes the top spot in 2019 Royal Navy ‘Juniors Leaders Field Gun’ competition
Students and staff from Derby’s UTC are celebrating following the news that they were judged the top performing University Technical College taking part in the 2019 Royal Navy ‘Juniors Leaders Field Gun’ competition.
The challenging and prestigious event takes place annually with competitors aged between 16-25 years old.
The experience provides a beginner’s introduction to the more traditional Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity Field Gun events. Junior competitors often have little, or no previous experience of the discipline and are provided with their own Trainer during the competition.
Not only was Derby’s UTC the highest placed University Technical College at the event, the teams allotted trainer during the competition, Mr. Matt Bradley, also secured the coveted Trainers Trophy!
Kerry Warburton, Curriculum Director for Engineering, accompanied students who, during the challenge, resided on HMS Bristol and then trained at HMS Collingwood, Fareham, each day.
Kerry said: “This will be a cherished experience with an unforgettable triumph for the students at the end!”
She continued: “The Field Gun is not all about power and brute strength, and a good mixture of people is perfect for a Junior Leaders Crew. Students of all backgrounds are welcome to take part. In fact, a great aspect of field gun is that rank, gender, age etc are irrelevant and everyone is treated as equals.
“Field Gun is a naval discipline which teaches the core Naval values of commitment, courage, discipline, respect, integrity and loyalty which enforces that everyone is welcome. Students who compete in Junior Leaders Field Gun have a great sense of pride and achievement and it is certainly an experience that remains with both students and staff for life!”