Ahead of our Remembrance Service, we are taking a look back to celebrate those from Itchen College that currently work in the British Military, and commemorate those that fought in the World Wars.
As we approach our Remembrance Service, Itchen College reflects with pride on the strength of our community — one that has always valued courage, service, and unity.
Today, many of our Uniformed Protective Services (UPS) students continue that tradition, building successful careers in the British Armed Forces.
A few of those students are:
- Callum M, who completed his Level 2 Protective Services course before joining the Royal Navy, passing out from basic training in October.
- Zak B completed his Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications before joining the British Army, passing out as a Paratrooper in September.
- Gracie W, after finishing her Level 3 Extended Diploma, joined the Royal Air Force and passed out in October.
Gracie returned to Itchen to give a talk to current UPS students about her path into the Royal Air Force.
Each of them follow in the footsteps of former Itchen students and staff who, more than a century ago, answered their country’s call.
On Tuesday 11th November, our college community will gather in the Main Hall for a Remembrance Service, led by UPS students and staff, to mark Armistice Day and to honour all who have served, past and present.
In 1949, Headmaster Mr E. Coteman unveiled two sycamore plaques in the Main Hall, bearing the names of students and staff who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars. These plaques still hang proudly today, a quiet but powerful reminder of their sacrifice — and of the enduring bonds within our community.
Among those remembered are:
- Second Lieutenant Arthur Ridley Biggs, Duke of Edinburgh’s Wiltshire Regiment – killed in action, July 1916.
- Frederick Penny, Petty Officer aboard HMS Black Prince – lost at the Battle of Jutland, 1916.
- Harry Baker, RAF Flying Officer – died in 1944 while serving with 272 Squadron.
- John Richard Locke, RAF Sergeant Observer – lost over the Bay of Biscay, 1942
- Douglas Viney, RAF Sergeant – killed in 1941 while serving with 254 Squadron.
As we pause to remember their courage, we also celebrate the living connection between generations of Itchen students — those who served, those who serve today, and those who will serve in years to come.
