Students studying uniformed protective services (UPS) courses organised and led the annual Remembrance Day service and formal parade at West Nottinghamshire College.

More than 60 students, who aspire to careers in the Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, police and fire services, welcomed guests, staff, and family and friends.

Supported by UPS staff, some of whom are former military personnel, the parade saw a guard of honour march led by parade commander and extended diploma student Phiphi Wiley, while fellow diploma student Gareth Maude was static guard leader.

Former A-Level student, RAF warrant officer Ethan Burton, performed a parade inspection alongside Phiphi, while Ethan Wood read the poem Remember Me by Harry Riley, and Daniel James Morris gave the dedication by reciting the Kohima Epitaph.

Attendees watched students carrying out specific drill movements, which they had practised since the start of the academic year.

The programme area leader for UPS, Simon Humphreys, said: “The event allowed students to experience the importance of service and respect, while connecting with a tradition of deep historical significance. We appreciate the students’ commitment, as their participation reflects a strong sense of responsibility, pride, and understanding of this day’s values.

“We hope the remembrance service created a lasting awareness for all who attended, encouraging them to carry forward the meaning of this day.”

Dignitaries included Lt Col Keith Spiers, head of engagement at the Army’s Chetwynd Barracks and college governor; Gary Jordan, chair of Mansfield Business Improvement District (BID); David Selwyn, chief executive of Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; Jay Rowlinson, chief executive of Mansfield BID; and Katie Kerry, of NTU.

Also in attendance were Ashfield District Council’s Coun Matt Relf; Tom Staples, of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue; Nick Mellors, of Innovation Nottinghamshire; Mansfield District Council’s Coun Stuart Richardson; and Tony Delahunty, managing director of Mansfield 103.2.

Several laid wreaths in memory of the fallen. They included college principal and chief executive Andrew Cropley and former principal Don Mackenzie and his wife, Jane Mackenzie.

Former principal Don Mackenzie and his wife, Jane, laid a wreath at the service.

Andrew said: “I’m so proud of our uniformed protective services students who performed with great discipline and teamwork.

“Congratulations to our staff team who did a great job in preparing our students for this event, and then had the courage to let go and empower the students to lead the parade themselves.”

The Last Post and Reveille were played on the cornet by the college’s careers, employability, and progression administrator, Mike Kilmartin, a retired Army musician who served for almost 12 years, firstly with the Royal Engineers and then with the Army Air Corp.

Learner Phiphi Wiley said: “I’ve been really proud to be leading something like this. Remembrance Day is quite special to me as members of my family have served in the Armed Forces and I am hoping to go on to join the RAF. We’ve been practising the drill since the beginning of September, and everyone involved has done really well.

“I’ve applied to the RAF regiment as an officer, so will hopefully go next year. I’ve passed my fitness and interview stage already. I would like to be in a role that leads, helps, and makes a difference.

“It’s important for people from all backgrounds, genders, ages, and experience to help others.

“The college has played a massive part in boosting my confidence and getting me to where I am today. It’s all about teamwork. Everyone here works together and helps one another — and that’s where confidence and ambition comes from.”