Hartpury University and Hartpury College has been recognised with a prestigious award from the Ministry of Defence, for its support of the armed forces. The Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) 2023 Bronze Award has been granted to the Gloucestershire institution in recognition of its support for the armed forces community, as well as its alignment with the values of the Armed Forces Covenant.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same. The scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community.
The award recognises that Hartpury has signed the Armed Forces Covenant and promotes being armed forces-friendly, open to employing reservists, armed forces veterans, cadet instructors and military spouses/partners.
It is hoped that the award will allow for further development of Hartpury’s existing links within uniformed services. It will also assist in empowering departments across the university and college to utilise the armed forces network, including for academic research or student career progression.
Hartpury College’s relationship with the armed forces facilitates frequent collaborative events and activities, organised to support the learning of its Uniformed Protective Services students. On Thursday 19 October, the Army’s South West’s Regional Engagement Team visited campus for a careers presentation and a day of teamwork and leadership exercises.
The careers presentation included exploring roles within the Army, selection process, Army lifestyle, sports and adventurous training, and Army sponsorships for those students looking to progress to higher education.
Paul Higgins, Lecturer in Uniformed Protective Services and Outdoor Adventure said: "The Armed Forces Covenant brings valuable benefits to outstanding educational establishments such as Hartpury , fostering a culture of respect, support, and inclusivity. By embracing this covenant, we provide a platform for veterans such as myself and Nick, service members, and their families to share their unique experiences, enriching the learning environment with diverse perspectives and inspiring future generations with courage, resilience, and a profound sense of British values."
Nick Collins, Lecturer in Uniformed Protective Services added: “We’re very proud of our close links with the armed forces. This award presents a great opportunity for Hartpury to strengthen our ties further with the UK’s top apprenticeship provider, support our incredible veterans and to empower reservists to contribute to the training and experience of the next generation. Our students most definitely benefit from the invaluable knowledge and skills passed on by veterans and those across a multitude of service roles.”
Uniformed Protective Services courses at Hartpury College
Hartpury’s Uniformed Protective Services course prepares students for the entrance tests to most uniformed public service jobs. From teamwork and leadership to discipline and planning, the courses help to provide students with the vital skills they need for a successful and fulfilling career. Hartpury works closely with the RAF, Royal Marines, British Army, Victim Support, Counter Terrorism Policing, Crimestoppers and the police.
