Cadets earn their berets at Coastland College CCF Pass Off Parade

Students from Coastland College’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF), based at the Kingston Maurward Campus, near Dorchester, formally passed off from training at a recent ceremonial parade marking the culmination of their initial cadet development.

The Pass Off Parade saw the 2025 CCF cohort transition from recruits into fully badged members of the contingent. Having met the required standards, cadets earned the right to wear the brown beret and cap badge of The Royal Wessex Yeomanry (RWxY) – a significant milestone recognising their commitment, discipline and growing military knowledge.

The afternoon began with the arrival of the Royal Wessex Yeomanry inspection team at Kingston Maurward House, before cadets formed up and marched onto the parade ground in front of the historic building.

Following a formal inspection and questioning on their knowledge of the RWxY, cadets remained at ease while the inspecting staff conferred on the standard of the parade.

On confirmation that the cohort had met the required level, staff returned to address the cadets and award berets, which were presented by serving contingent members and the College;’s senior leadership team.

The parade concluded with a march past at the rear of the main house, watched by staff and senior leaders, before a full debrief later in the afternoon.

For many cadets, the day also marked personal achievement through promotion within the CCF.

Daisy Martin, who was promoted to Corporal, said: “Wearing this beret is a huge honour as the Yeomanry has supported the British Armoured Regiments, and it makes me incredibly proud to wear the cap badge.

“Being promoted to Corporal means a great deal to me as it reflects the hard work I’ve put in and allows me to help teach and lead other cadets.”

Daisy added that Coastland College had supported her ambition to join the Army by offering physical training, career knowledge and guidance through application processes.

Jordan Roussel, who was promoted to Lance Corporal and hopes to one day join the Royal Marines, described the moment as a proud one.

“It is a huge honour to wear the Royal Wessex Yeomanry cap badge,” he said.

“I’ve worked hard towards achieving my promotion, and Coastland College has taught me specific military knowledge alongside physical training based around the fitness requirements to join the services.”

Jacob Maine, also promoted to Corporal, highlighted the deeper meaning behind the parade.

“I feel honoured to wear the brown beret knowing that members of the Royal Wessex Yeomanry have given their lives to protect us,” he commented.

“My promotion gives me the opportunity to help teach and develop others so that one day they too can become leaders.”

Ryan House described the beret as recognition of sustained effort.

He commented: “Getting my beret was a memorable moment – it represents two months of proving myself worthy to wear the cap badge. Being promoted to Corporal shows that I’m capable, experienced and able to set an example to other cadets.”

The Combined Cadet Force at Coastland College runs alongside students’ academic courses, including Military Preparation, giving learners practical leadership experience, physical training and insight into careers within the Armed Forces and protective services.

The Pass Off Parade not only celebrated the achievements of the 2025 intake but also marked the beginning of their next stage as fully fledged members of the Coastland College CCF contingent, proudly wearing the badge of The Royal Wessex Yeomanry.