2nd November 2026
Protective Services students at BDC have been put through their paces by the British Army Engagement Team during marching drill training.
They are now preparing to showcase their skills at the Remembrance Parade on 11 November.
The team visited the College this week to deliver practical marching drill training, supporting an essential part of the students’ course.
Students practised a range of drill commands and learnt to march together as a coordinated squad. Through instruction and repetition, they worked on responding accurately to commands, maintaining timing and moving collectively as a disciplined unit
The sessions challenged students to sustain their concentration, build confidence and support one another to achieve a shared goal. Alongside their marching technique, they demonstrated resilience, coordination, teamwork, leadership and commitment.
Their training will culminate in the opportunity to put these skills into practice at the Remembrance Parade, demonstrating discipline, teamwork and respect as they take part in the act of remembrance.
The visit also gave students an insight into the standards expected within the uniformed services, helping them develop practical skills and personal qualities relevant to future careers in the British Army and other protective services professions.
Gwen Edwards, Sport & Protective Services Curriculum Manager at Barking & Dagenham College explains: “Marching as a squad requires every student to concentrate, respond to instructions and take responsibility for their part in the team. Working with the British Army Engagement Team has given our students valuable practical experience of those expectations. The opportunity to use these skills at the Remembrance Parade gives their training a real sense of purpose. It will be a chance to demonstrate what they have learnt while paying their respects.”
