Lions Roar Winter 23

Inside this Issue: 230 SQN MEDEVAC Training Invictus Games Benson Motorcycle Club Mopedathon

The official quarterly publication of Royal Air Force Benson

SEASON OF HO Winter 2023 Issue 98 www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

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CONTENTS WINTER 2023

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11 12 4 LION’S ROAR WINTER 2023

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17 SUBMISSION OF ARTICLES Articles for the Lion’s Roar should be submitted by email, written in Microsoft Word (preferably not the latest version format) and pictures should be sent as high quality original jpegs and attached as separate files, not embedded in the text or reduced in size.

Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability

Lion's Roar Publishing Team

From the

Editor…

Welcome to the Winter 2023 issue of the Lion’s Roar.

So much has been achieved throughout our Where has the year gone? So much has been achieved throughout our community, home and away, and it’s been great hearing about them all, along with the activities on Station and in the community.

Congratulations to Emily from Chinook Class for the winning design for the front cover and a big thank you to all the teachers and students at RAF Benson Primary School for all the wonderful drawings that were submitted.

Thank you to everyone who has submitted articles this year. If you go out and about over the coming months or have an event in the future, please let the editorial team know. Articles along with any pictures can be sent to BEN-LionsRoarMagazine@mod. gov.uk. 500-700 words is perfect, but we can consider shorter or longer articles. Also, please minimise military acronyms wherever possible.

I hope you enjoy the magazine and wish you all a very merry festive season, and a happy and prosperous New Year. .

Sgt Rachael Williams Lion’s Roar Editor

18

Contents...

PAGE

SEASON OF HOPE

PAGE

JHSS 3 TROOP AT EXPEDITION TO SWINLEY FOREST

PAGE

WHEN AIRPOWER MEETS HORSEPOWER

Winter 2023 13 PAGE

84 SQN AERIAL FIRE FIGHTING, AKROUNTA FOREST

PAGE

10

230 SQN MEDEVAC TRAINING

PAGE

EX NOCTEM WARRIOR 23 NAFEC EL CENTRO, CALFORNIA

08 11 PAGE

BULFORD KIWI RECHALK-WILTSHIRE

PAGE

RESERVE AIR AND SPACE OPERATIONS SPECIALIST COURSE

11 12

www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

14 15 17

INVICTUS GAMES

PAGE

BENSON MOTORCYCLE CLUB MOPEDATHON

PAGE

HIVE

20

Tel: 01536 334223 ADVERTISING MANAGER Jayne Bailey Tel: 01536 334219 Email: jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk DESIGNER Amanda Robinson PRINTER Micropress ALL CORRESPONDENCE AND FEATURES TO… Sgt Rachael Williams Flt Lt Dent Email: BEN-LionsRoarMagazine@ mod.gov.uk

Don’t Forget!

Look out for the next edition of Lion’s Roar which is due out in March 2023

DISCLAIMER:

PAGE

18

PUBLISHER Lion’s Roar is published by Lance Media Group Ltd, 1st Floor Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8NL

This publication is copyright Lance Media Group Ltd and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior written permission of Lance Media Group Ltd. While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Media Group Ltd cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any consequence arising from it. Views Expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the Ministry of Defence.

All images © UK MoD Crown Copyright 2016 unless otherwise stated.

WINTER 2023 LION’S ROAR 5

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STN CDR'S FOREWORD

As winter sets in and we begin to look forward to taking a wellearned rest over the Christmas period, I believe that an ideal opportunity is presented to reflect on what the Station has achieved – what you have achieved – in the twelve months since I assumed command of RAF Benson.

Foreword

www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

are new and old challenges, as we learnt when contending ‘down birds’ in Plymouth and Athens concurrently. Similarly, we should recognise the significant effort that has been expended by our Air Traffic Control brought about by the changes under Project Marshall. Then of course to Base Support Wing (BSW) and our industry partners, civil servants and contractors. On a daily basis BSW, supported by these organisations, provide the foundations from which RAF Benson generates critical operational and training activity to support UK Defence in the UK, Brunei and Cyprus. For example, the Benson Recharged programme delivers an excellent outlet for personnel to have much needed relief away from the workplace. Leading the way, this enterprise is being used as best practice across the RAF, with other Stations looking to rollout the scheme. The opening of the BenZen Space is a welcome addition, promoting positive mental health and wellbeing for all Whole Force personnel and family members. BSW staff have also worked alongside our industry partners and contractors to improve the lived experience at RAF Benson through valuable initiatives such as the Rabbit Hill Gate. This recent installation provides our personnel and their families greater access to the local community and closer

Editorial Team OIC/EDITOR Sgt Rachael Williams 606 Sqn DEPUTY EDITOR Flt Lt Amy Dent 28 Sqn 33 SQN REP Flt Lt Thomas Mullins 28 SQN REP AS1 O'Brien Ext: 7722 LS REP Fg Off Becky Bull Ext: 7428

from the Station Commander...

Our operational tempo and output remains as high as ever, with life-saving capabilities being delivered in Brunei and Cyprus on a daily basis.

Ably supported by 33 Sqn and other elements across Stn, 84 Sqn have fought their first forest fire, protecting property, businesses and people in the Republic of Cyprus; and 230 Sqn have conducted numerous jungle MEDEVACS, undoubtedly saving a life on at least one occasion.

Closer to the home unit, 28 Sqn continues to grow and develop the next generation of frontline Support Helicopter aircrew; throughout the year approximately 60 pilots and crewmen have been trained including ab-initio, re-role, refresh and new or returning instructors. Many of these will already be poised to conduct Operations around the globe either on 84 Sqn, 230 Sqn or with the Chinook Force in response to current global instability, in whatever way Defence requires.

In addition, 28 Sqn engineers remain on permanent roulement supporting Op SHADER. From a headquarters perspective, it has been an exceptionally busy year. Both JHSS and 606 Sqn have been supporting Operations as well as numerous exercises across the globe. The FHQ has eased into a new support regimen and now supports both at home and overseas. Here there

Lion’s Roar

connections to our neighbours and friends in Ewelme.

Recognising the successes of Benson at the Annual Formal Reception, we were joined by many of our allies from industry, the charity sector and the local community. Most recently we held the BENAwards, a fantastic evening celebrating the remarkable achievements of our personnel and their outstanding contributions to the Station and Service.

Finally, but of utmost importance, I would like to say a personal thank you to each and every one of you who have supported this Station, be that Service or Civilian, Regular or Reserve, industry partner or contractor. It is you that continues to make RAF Benson the operationally focussed, globally deployed Main Operating Base that punches above its weight and puts its people at the heart of everything it does. To our families and loved ones, I say thank you – thank you for your continued support, commitment, empathy, and understanding. We cannot execute our duties in support of King and Country without your help and support; and so, when the time comes, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

I hope that you take the time to reflect on the part you have played in making the world a better and safer place for all.

EXPEDITION AND SPORTS REP Post vacant BSW REP Post vacant OPS WG REP Flt Lt Tom Barber Ext: 8139 606 SQN REP Flt Lt Fern Gwinnett 606 Sqn Media, Ext: 7238 JHSS REP Capt Bertie Vickers PHOTO AND IMAGERY REP AS1 Sam Dale Ext: 7265 CARTOONIST Post vacant COVER CREDIT Emily, Chinook Class, RAF Benson Primary School Inside this Issue: 230 SQN Medevac Training Invictus Games Benson

Motorcycle Club Mopedathon

The official quarterly publication of Royal Air Force Benson

OPE SEASON OF H Winter 2023 Issue 98 www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

WINTER 2023 LION’S ROAR 7

84 SQN

84 Sqn Aerial Fire Fighting, Akrounta Forest Flt Lt Wallis AFC Though 84 Sqn operations are directed by British Forces Cyprus, the Puma Force – including 28 Sqn Puma Flight and associated support functions across Benson – are responsible for Force Generating and sustaining the capability in Cyprus.

On Saturday 9th September 84 Squadron’s Emergency Response (ER) crew, Flt Lt Wallis, Flt Lt Wood (Woody) and Sgt Graham, briefed early for a 08:20 take off in support of a visiting unit exercising on the sunny island of Cyprus.

During the tasking the ER crew made several trips, east and west, along the south coast between Dhekalia and Episkopi.

During a break from flying the troops, the crew conducted some aerial firefighting training, a newly acquired skill since deploying to Cyprus, dropping water on several targets on the Akrotiri peninsular. This would turn out to be fortuitous timing indeed.

At approximately 13:00 a fire was spotted in the mountains to the North of Limassol which we reported to Akrotiri Operations.

Over the following few hours, the fire was seen to grow in size, 8 LION’S ROAR WINTER 2023

but the crew continued with the trooping task whilst eagerly awaiting the call to help. If there is a fire in the Republic of Cyprus (as opposed to on the Sovereign Base Areas) there is a call out order which sees Cypriot assets called in to respond first, and UK Pumas only called in to support if the situation is beyond their control (which can lead to an amount of frustration, as we can see fires growing but are unable to assist until called!).

On completion of the task at 15:30 the crew returned to Akrotiri by which time the fire had become a raging inferno, spread across the hillsides overlooking Limassol and could be seen burning from 30+ kilometres away. The crew had still not received a call to support, so we landed and shut down somewhat despondent. Whilst on the ground it was decided to swap out Sgt Graham for MACr Seward (aka ‘Seaweed’) as neither of the pilots had fought a real fire before and we could make use of his experience fighting fires on the Griffin helicopter. We knew that a second Puma would follow on as soon as it could, and that Sgt Graham would not miss out. After gazing wistfully at the billowing

smoke on the horizon for a further 20 minutes, we received the call.

10 minutes after that our Puma: callsign ‘RESCUE 50’, was on the way with a Bambi Bucket beneath making best speed to the scene.

As we took off, the two Cypriot Helix helicopters, callsign FLOGA, had just returned for a break as they had been fire fighting for a few hours and as we approached the area the Air-Tractor firefighting planes, callsign FOREST, were returning to Akrotiri to refuel and pick up water. This was great news for the inexperienced Puma Firefighting crew. It meant that there was only one other aircraft on scene, the Cypriot 460 Sqn airborne controller, callsign ARIS who sits several thousand feet above the fire directing the other aircraft. The lack of other traffic in the area afforded us the opportunity to make several bucket drops undisturbed whilst getting used to the smoke and mountainous terrain. The water source, Yermasogeia reservoir was within 5 miles of the fire meaning that the water drops were coming thick and fast, and the crew quickly got into a rhythm of pick up, transit, drop, transit, pick up, with each serial taking only 5 minutes. The Bambi bucket carries about 1200L of water, so it did not take long for the effect on the fire to be seen. Whilst dropping our water we could see fire crews on the ground fearlessly battling the flames on the mountainside, with fire trucks and on foot. The smoke was extremely thick in places leading to some hair-raising moments when the mountainside temporarily disappeared as we were flying towards it, low level, with an underslung load.

After 30 minutes of firefighting alone, the second Puma, callsign RESCUE 51, arrived, crewed by Flt Lt Minns, Flt Lt Cushen and Sgt Graham, and joined us in the pattern. They followed our lead and doubled the volume of water being put

on target which had a marked effect. It was perhaps 20 minutes later when the FLOGAs returned and got back into the fire fight.

The FLOGA holds 3000L of water in a much larger bucket so each circuit by the 4 helicopters led to a combined total of 8200L+ water dropping every 5 minutes.

Combined with the FOREST firefighting planes which swoop in as a pair every 15 minutes, the aircraft really do make a difference!

A little over two hours after take-off the ER crew returned to base and shut down. OC 84 Sqn wisely told us to stop for the day as we had been airborne for 7hrs and 10 mins, 5hrs tasking and training, and 2hrs and 10mins firefighting. It is easy to get task focused and underestimate how tired and dehydrated one becomes and it was the right call.

The second crew persevered until last light. Both crews dropped 19 buckets that afternoon totalling 44 tons of water. Not a bad start to the Pumas account. Woody, Seaweed and I sat outside the Sqn bar having a much-deserved beer, watching the glow of the fire on the mountainside as the sun went down, watching the helicopters and planes return. It was the end of a very satisfying day, but we were mindful of the brave fire crews on the ground that had a very long night ahead of them.

After the well-received beer, we rested up in preparation for the following day.

Sunday morning, the crews met in Operations at 08:00 hoping to immediately get stuck back into the firefight. It took another 45 minutes until the call came in for us to assist. The plan that day was to introduce as many members of the Sqn as possible to firefighting, thereby cascading the experience gained the day before.

RESCUE 50 crewed by Flt Lt Wallis, Flt Lt Fielding and Sgt Pearce and RESCUE 51 crewed by Sqn Ldr Frost (OC 84 Sqn), Flt Lt Cushen, MACr Seward and FS Caven.

Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability

84 SQN

Within 10 minutes, both Pumas were airborne and dropping buckets less than 20 minutes after the call out.

The fire had subsided greatly thanks to the tremendous overnight efforts of the fire fighters on the ground. As such, there was very little smoke but there was still work to be done attacking small, isolated fires that the ground crews could not access. Both crews worked diligently for almost 2hrs before returning to base to crew change and refuel. In RESCUE 50, Flt Lt Fielding was swapped out for www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

Flt Lt Mullins and Sgt Pearce for FS Waugh whilst in RESCUE 51 FS Caven was swapped out for Sgt McMillen. We then flew for another hour before being called home as the job was done and the fire broadly extinguished.

The Puma proved itself to be an extremely effective firefighting aircraft. It can lift 50% more water per bucket than the Griffin helicopter that it replaced, and it can remain on scene for double the length of time. It is a great asset to have in Cyprus and will hopefully be dropping buckets in Cyprus for many years to come.

www.rafmags.co.uk WINTER 2023 LION’S ROAR 9

230 SQN

230 Sqn

MEDEVAC Training Flt Lt Toby Pay British troops training in the jungles of Brunei have a lot to worry about. Not only must they learn the essential skills that they need to survive and fight in the jungle.

They must also deal with a host of dangerous flora and fauna, all while contending with the tropical heat. There is a lot that can go wrong and having a plan for how to deal with a medical emergency is essential.

MEDEVAC, short for Medical Evacuation, is 230 Squadron’s primary role in Brunei. Consisting of just 3 Puma helicopters and less than 100 personnel, 230 Squadron took over from the Army Air Corps in 2022. The squadron holds MEDEVAC standby day and night whenever troops are exercising in the jungle. A crew of two pilots, one crewman and a winch medic will be on standby, ready to be airborne within 60 minutes of receiving a MEDEVAC request, known as a “9-Liner”.

The winch medic is essential to the role. They not only provide medical assistance to any casualty on board but often they will be winched into small and unprepared jungle clearings. All of 230 Squadron’s winch medics

10 LION’S ROAR WINTER 2023

are trained medical personnel from both the garrison’s Primary Care Medical Facility (PCMF) and the Regimental Aid Post (RAP), working with the Squadron alongside their primary duties.

LCpl Woolley whose day-to-day role is as a primary healthcare medic at the PCMF joined 230 Squadron in the summer of 2023 and in his short time on the Squadron he has been involved in a number of rescues, many of them using the winch. LCpl Wooley describes being a winch medic as “probably the best job I’ve ever done in the military”.

Such a role requires specialist training, beginning with lessons on the various winching equipment they will need to become familiar with. They quickly progress to the aircraft where they experience what it is like to go out of the helicopter on a winch. This is a unique experience that strikes fear in most trainees, but building confidence is key. They will start low, at approximately 10 feet before slowly moving higher. It is crucial that they get comfortable as winch rescues in the jungle regularly involve winching at heights up to 200 feet. As they build confidence, they also

must learn a range of new skills.

These include hand signals for communicating with the winch operator and how to securely attach themselves and a casualty to the winch in different scenarios.

They will initially learn these skills at Medicina Lines where 230 Squadron is based. Progressing through recovering causalities using strops and the rescue stretcher carried by the Puma. As they progress through the course, they then leave the safety of the airfield and are exposed to the jungle environment. Here they learn the skills required to work

Due to the range of experience the training process must be flexible. There is no set timeframe in which it must be

with the crewman to recover a casualty in a confined space whilst dealing with the noise and downwash of a helicopter overhead. Once these skills have been mastered by day, the trainee will then be required to demonstrate them at night.

Night winching in the jungle is a skill that is difficult for all that are involved and so it is essential to train this whenever possible.

Like many of the medics LCpl Woolley had never been on a helicopter before becoming a winch medic. Even with

completed, and trainees are given the time they need to achieve the level of skill required.

It is a steep learning curve for all, but it is a truly rewarding job.

Once their training is completed new medics must pass an assessed flight to demonstrate what they have learned. On passing their check they are now able to hold a MEDEVAC readiness alongside the rest of the crew and joining the squadron in helping to save the lives of British troops in Brunei.

experience working in field hospitals and ambulances carrying out medical work in the back of a helicopter added a whole new dimension.

“It massively threw me off” he told me. “The first casualty was one of the more difficult things I’ve done”.

Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability

EX NOCTEM WARRIOR 23/ BULFORD KIWI RE-CHALK - WILTSHIRE

Ex NOCTEM WARRIOR 23

NAFEC EL CENTRO,

CALIFORNIA Pte Enrique Gordon - RLC Driver Teams from JHSS deployed to the Naval Air Facility in El Centro, California to support the flying training of Support Helicopters in the desert environment.

During this deployment the team had to face the challenges of operating in a harsh environment as they experienced one of the world’s hottest temperatures ever recorded, a blistering 51°C. Despite the uncomfortable temperatures, the team

continued to perform their crucial tasks. JHSS assisted 28 Sqn and 27 Sqn with training during their deployment whilst they completed SERE training, learning how to avoid capture and how to survive in an isolated desert.

Other tasks were to provide passenger handling and underslung loads throughout the day and night, JHSS helped with 28 Squadron training by facilitating the lift of netted loads. Additionally,

they made up the Post Crash Management Team, put on standby to head into the desert in the case of any breakdowns, or worst case, a crash.

They also aided 27 Squadron training to land in Desert Boxes and when suitable, helped with night landings using buzzsaw and firefly.

Additionally, JHSS undertook recces to ensure that certain

landing sites were adequate for the Chinooks to land in.

During downtime, the troops had access to a wide range of facilities at the Naval Air Facility to strengthen their sense of teamwork and build team cohesion.

JHSS took the opportunity to participate in a range of activities, including hill walking, visiting monuments, museums, and famous landmarks across California.

Bulford Kiwi Re-chalk - Wiltshire A/Sgt Alec Cecil JHSS HHTL Located on Beacon Hill overlooking the military town of Bulford on Salisbury Plain, the Bulford Kiwi was created by soldiers of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in 1919, who were awaiting repatriation home following the end of the First World War. It is a large depiction of the flightless bird native to New Zealand and is used as the national symbol for both that country and its people.

The design covers 1.5 acres, is around 130 metres tall, and was declared a ‘scheduled monument’ in 2017, meaning it has recognition as a nationally important archaeological site and cannot be destroyed.

It was first resurfaced in 2018, in which JHSS played a pivotal role, moving 100 tonnes of chalk in single use lift bags directly onto the Kiwi, for volunteers from the 249 Gurkha Signals Squadron to rake into position. I was lucky enough to be a part of that first resurface and jumped at www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

the opportunity to be the Team Leader of the second resurface.

After liaising with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) archaeologist, we delivered the single use lift bags for filling and recced both Helicopter Landing Sites (HLS) for suitability. Our Mobile Air Operations Team Leader (MAOTL) Flt Lt Macleod identified that the pick-up location was being used for excising troops, and as such was unsuitable for helicopter operations. After liaising with Bulford camp, it was identified that the parade square on Kiwi barracks would work as the best pick-up location.

We arrived on the day and after positioning the loads, finished preparing them and the HLS, for the arrival of the Chinook from 18 Sqn. We had prepared 12 Single Use Lift Bags (SULBs) that would be flown in groups of 4, for a total of three lifts. Afterwards members of the New Zealand embassy and invited guests were loaded into the Chinook and given a flight around the Kiwi, and surrounding area.

This was poignant as the pilot the Kiwi is now back to its former of the aircraft was part of glory overlooking Salisbury Plain. the exchange program from New Zealand and had flown over the kiwi many times not knowing its significance.

The lifts went well and with the help of the 249 Gurkha Signals Squadron, and some Gurkha curry,

WINTER 2023 LION’S ROAR 11

RESERVE AIR AND SPACE OPERATIONS SPECIALIST COURSE

Reserve Air and Space Operations Specialist Course Sgt Rachael Williams As a Trade coordinator on 606 Sqn, I take immense pride in the carriage of my duties, but especially the part of my role which is to deliver Air and Space Operations Specialist (ASOS) Phase 2 training to Reserve personnel. The joy of seeing personnel develop and gain knowledge, and sharing their success when they graduate is a feeling that cannot be explained.

O

ver the last few years, the Trade and Branch have undergone several changes, including Phase 2 (Trade) Training. Going from the Flight Operations Specialist Course, a single course covering all aspects of the core roles of an ASOS to the Air and Space Operations Specialist Course (ASOSC), a modularised course giving specific training to the role in which an ASOS will be first posted to.

As a summary (and not exhaustive) all ASOS personnel

(Regular and Reserve) will undertake Module 1 Basic Air Awareness, 22 lessons which includes communications, Meteorology, Airspace, Flight monitoring with Exams at mid-course and course end.

On successful completion of Module 1, the students will then be put forwards to one of the remaining 3 modules; Air Traffic Management learning about airfield layouts and operating procedures, as well as control procedures for vehicles and air systems, Flight Operations learning about the management of flights and contingency planning or Air Defence learning to recognise threats and the actions to take in defence of the UK. Each of these three modules has theory and practical assessments.

The first courses for Regular personnel commenced in May 2022, and after much discussion and staff work a pathway was agreed for Reserve personnel to undertake

Module 1 and Module 3. The first course being delivered on 606 Sqn here at Benson and culminating in a practical element at RAF Shawbury; the proverbial home of ASOS. In Jan of this year, 6 students from 606 Sqn began the first Reserve ASOSC. Alongside their civilian roles, coming in 1 weekend per

month for 6 months they received the theory lessons of Module 1 and Module 3 before completing 2 weeks of practical training at RAF Shawbury.

Through an endless amount of blood (not literally), sweat and tears, students and instructors alike, along with support from the Team at the Defence College of Air and Space Operations, RAF Shawbury all 6 students successfully completed their Phase 2 training. As Course Commander, like a proud parent, I look forward to watching them begin their journey outside of training and flourish in their careers within the Royal Air Force Reserves.

Congratulations AS2 Beltran-Cavanzo, AS2 Gauchan, AS2 Kalsi, AS2 Nixey, AS2 Odoi and AS2 Skinner.

12 LION’S ROAR WINTER 2023

Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability

PADRES PEACE

Padre Paul Stephens

Season of Hope

‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year…’.

S

o goes the famous Christmas song. Does the Christmas season seem like that to you? Life is full of many good things.

However, many people here and around the world are facing insecurity and financial hardship. The media has also been full of bleak stories from across the globe, reporting devastating conflicts that have caused tragic loss of lives and livelihoods. What should be a time of celebration may instead be a difficult time for many. Where can we find hope – something to hold on to, something to look forward to?

The true meaning of Christmas is a promise of hope.

In the Bible, God promised His people who walked in darkness a ‘Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father,

www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

Prince of Peace’, who would bring light to the darkness:

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them a light has shone…For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulders, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:2,6).

We read the account of the first Christmas when the angel came to Joseph, the soon-tobe-husband of Mary, and told him that her son, supernaturally conceived, would be called ‘Immanuel’, which means ‘God with us’: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel.”

(Gospel of Matthew 1:23).

The birth of Jesus can still offer a thrill of hope to everyone seeking comfort from a weary world. He has the power to meet our deepest needs.

One of the most remarkable teachings in the Bible is that Christ Himself will enter and live in any human heart that welcomes Him. Christmas is the giving of God’s gift to us – God’s presence in our lives. It’s not a gift we earn, but one we are invited to freely receive.

What does Jesus’ presence in our lives look like? Hear this wonderful assurance God gives:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble.

But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (Gospel of John 16:33).

Wherever you are, and whatever you are facing now, or will face in the future, remember this: God’s loving and comforting presence and strength is available to you right now. You are not alone. Hope has a name: Jesus, the one born in a manger.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace this Christmas and in the New Year.

WINTER 2023 LION’S ROAR 13

JHSS 3 TROOP AT EXPEDITION TO SWINLEY FOREST

JHSS 3 Troop at Expedition to

Swinley Forest Cpl Mann & AS1 Hodder

When it comes to adventure and camaraderie, few activities match the thrill of Mountain Biking.

R

ecently, 12 members of JHSS decided to take a break from their demanding duties to embark on an unforgettable journey through the lush trails of Swinley Forest. In this article, we’ll follow their exhilarating experience as they explored the forest, bonded as a team, and discovered the therapeutic benefits of nature and cycling.

The Call of Swinley Forest.

Swinley Forest, located in Berkshire, England, is renowned for its picturesque woodlands and diverse trail network that caters to mountain bikers of all skill levels. The forest offers a unique blend of challenging descents, flowing singletracks, and scenic vistas that beckon riders to explore its natural beauty.

The Squad The 12 military personnel who ventured into Swinley Forest came from different branches of the Armed Forces, each bringing their own set of skills and experiences. Despite their diverse backgrounds, they all shared a common love for adventure and a desire to unwind in the great outdoors.

Challenges and Triumphs As they pedalled deeper into the forest, the squad faced a variety of challenges. Technical descents required precise control, while steep climbs demanded endurance and determination.

However, the camaraderie and support among the group pushed them to overcome every obstacle they encountered.

The Journey Begins Equipped with a fleet of highquality mountain bikes and safety gear, the squad set off on their mountain biking adventure.

Swinley Forest welcomed them with its canopy-covered trails, allowing dappled sunlight to filter through the leaves, creating a tranquil and immersive atmosphere.

Bonding Through Adventure Mountain biking is not just about conquering trails; it's also about building connections.

The 12 military personnel forged strong bonds during their journey, relying on each other's strengths and encouraging one another through the tough sections. The forest became the backdrop for stories and laughter that would be remembered long after the adventure ended.

The Therapeutic Power of Nature One of the most significant takeaways from this mountain biking excursion was the therapeutic power of nature.

The riders found solace in the forest's serenity, experiencing a sense of peace and tranquility that served as a welcome break from the rigors of military life. Swinley Forest provided a space for relaxation and reflection, rejuvenating their minds and spirits.

Completing the Adventure After a full day of pedalling through the forest, the squad emerged from Swinley Forest with a sense of accomplishment.

They had navigated challenging trails, crossed streams, and breathed in the fresh woodland air. The adventure not only strengthened their bond but also left them with lasting memories of their mountain biking experience.

Conclusion The 12 military personnel who ventured into Swinley Forest on their mountain biking expedition discovered much more than just a thrilling outdoor activity.

They found unity, resilience, and the restorative power of nature. Swinley Forest, with its enchanting trails and tranquil atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable journey. As these individuals return to their military duties, they carry with them the memories and lessons learned from their adventurous day in the woods, forever grateful for the respite and camaraderie it provided.

14 LION’S ROAR WINTER 2023

Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability

WHEN AIRPOWER MEETS HORSEPOWER

When Airpower meets Horsepower Aerospace and Automotive have been a backbone in British Engineering and Manufacturing for over a century. With many engineering accolades in this field such as Concorde, the Classic Mini, Harrier and the McLaren P1 to name but a few. Both industries have made an overwhelming impact, putting the UK on the map for engineering innovation and excellence.

We at RAF Benson want to mark this achievement by combining these two powerhouse industries into one. When Airpower meets Horsepower.

The late Colin Chapman was a man with a passion for engineering and innovation, most frequently associated with major technical advancements within automotive and less well known as an RAF Pilot.

This made Chapman an ideal place to start this project, with

www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

his most famous legacy still driving around our roads today.

In 1948 Chapman created the first MK1 Lotus 7 and in 1973 the rights for the production were sold to Caterham Cars, many of which you will still see on the road today. Colin’s legacy has inspired future generations with its simplicity of design and timeless aesthetics.

With this philosophy in mind the Station Commander at RAF Benson reached out to the CEO of Caterham Cars to propose a joint venture with three clear objectives: 1) to excite and raise awareness of British Engineering Excellence to the general public 2) to engage with the younger generation and promote STEM Careers and subjects 3) to fundraise for both parties’ nominated charities.

Caterham responded with bounds of enthusiasm and the project was pedal to the metal.

The core team from Caterham and RAF Benson scoped a multitude of ideas to ensure the best engagement and maximise the revenue for charity. Reflecting upon the fact that RAF Benson is the home of Puma, the team unanimously agreed to develop a project to build a unique ‘one off’ Puma Caterham. It would incorporate components from the Puma platform integrated into a Caterham vehicle to ultimately auction for the chosen Charities Mission Motorsport and Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund. At this point, the project started gaining moment and a wider team from RAF Benson station was formed.

Interest from across the Station was high, and introductory briefs were set in place for those interested in getting involved. The brief covered an outline of what the project aims to achieve in terms of STEM,

engineering excellence and collaboration with industry.

In early July 23, the RAF Benson Project Caterham committee was established and began the task of briefing its members on the work carried out so far, as well as forming multiple subcommittees, each given ownership of a particular aspect of the project. These range from event co-ordination through to a book containing the detailed history of the Aircraft which had donated the various parts to the build.

Utilising their expertise in the manufacture of aircraft parts and conducting bespoke construction projects, Station Workshops stepped up to ensure any potential aircraft components will physically fit into/onto the car.

With the planning now well underway, we look forward to the next chapter of ’When Airpower meets Horsepower’

WINTER 2023 LION’S ROAR 15

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INVICTUS GAMES

Invictus Games Cpl Robert ‘Bob’ Grantham My name is Cpl Robert ‘Bob’ Grantham and currently employed as part of the engineering force on 33 Sqn. Back in 2021 I unfortunately sustained an injury to my right ankle whilst taking part in an Ironman triathlon. I was diagnosed with a fractured Tibia, two partially torn ligaments and a cyst at the site of the tears. Post injury, not only did I have to work on my physical health but also my mental health. Previously I used running to relieve stress which I was suddenly unable to do; I needed to find alternative ways to unwind and to keep my physical health in a good place too. Along with rehabilitation courses and work with the local Exercise Rehab Instructors at RAF Benson, I achieved both by representing the RAF at Water Polo along with swimming and cycling with Wallingford Triathlon Club, which in turn aided my mental health due to the social aspect of the clubs.

I was approached by some of my clubmates at Wallingford Triathlon Club and they mentioned that I should consider applying to attend the Invictus Games with Team UK. Most people automatically assume that you have to be missing a limb to be able to attend the Invictus Games – this is very far from the truth. There are so many injuries that can't be seen, including PTSD of course.

As for the selection process, it isn’t just based on who is the www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

best at each sport. Overseen by the Royal British Legion (RBL), it is primarily based on how the journey will impact the participant’s recovery journey.

Over the course of 4 months (Sep-Dec 2022) there were pre-selection camps attended by over 500 individuals, performing in their selected sports. After that came an online application, along with a short video explaining how being part of Team UK would help my personal recovery.

Final selection was then made by a panel of RBL staff who had the tough task of selecting 59 applicants and 6 reserves.

The final Team UK included nine competitors who were still currently serving (across all three Services), along with veterans injured or wounded, physically and or mentally, during their service career.

The 2023 Invictus Games took place in Dusseldorf, Germany and was attended by over 500 competitors from 21 nations. For many competitors the games were not about winning a medal but instead completing their own personal goals. I had set myself the goals of achieving personal bests (PBs) in all my events – Indoor Rowing, Swimming and Cycling.

The rowing consisted of a fourminute and a one-minute race on a rowing machine, with the aim of rowing as many metres as possible in that time. Rowing was a new sport that I had only taken up in March 2023 in order to compete in an additional sport at the Games. In both events I went on to achieve PBs and finished 5th out of 75 in the 4-min event (1222m) and 18th out of 88 in the 1-min row (350m).

The Swimming was another competition where I was racing alongside others, but my main competition was against the clock, aiming for more PBs. I competed at 100m freestyle, 50m freestyle and 50m breaststroke.

I got through to the finals of the 100m freestyle and took 3.69 sec off my previous PB, finishing 4th with a time of 1:08:17. In both the 50m races I also achieved new PBs, making it PBs in all 5 events so far!

My final event consisted of two cycle races. Firstly, the Individual Time Trial over a distance of 1.6km in which I won a Bronze medal. Second was a team Criterium Race over 20-minutes and then a final lap where five Team UK riders worked together. In this I won Silver with

the rest of the team earning 3rd, 4th, 5th and 10th place.

This is an experience that shows despite having an injury you can still push yourself and adapt the way you do things.

I would encourage anybody that is currently on a medical downgrade to look into the work that the RBL do and see the opportunities that are out there still. An injury does not have define what you can achieve!

WINTER 2023 LION’S ROAR 17

BENSON MOTORCYCLE CLUB MOPEDATHON

Benson Motorcycle Club

Mopedathon Flt Lt Paul Butcher

The 5th August 2023 was a dark and stormy day at RAF Benson.

The wind was howling, the rain driving so hard it made your head bleed, battering the terrible mopeds and their teams as they prepared to make an attempt at historic motorsport glory. The sweet embrace of the liquid sunshine wrapped the huddled masses like a piece of pre-used clingfilm as their first riders trudged to the raised table-top jump to start the event. Channelling the Bard, “Once again, unto the breach”, thought the pilots as they assembled for the Benson Motorcycle Club (BMCC) Mopedathon. Six gruelling hours of machine breaking, soul wrenching, low performance endurance testing of human and machine. There is no winner, no prize, no goal; only the most fleeting chance to maybe, just maybe chisel your name into that granite wall of historic fancy dress endurance moped eventing.

14 teams made of 41 gladiators chose to enter the arena. Only at Thermopylae did a formation face down a more overwhelming enemy with such poor odds of success. Twisted creatures of both body and mind enter, but only a single tattered and worn team can leave the course with their already limited dignity intact.

At 0955 those chosen first 14 warriors, already assembled at the starting line, were completing their final mental preparations.

Rain streamed off their helmet visors as they bucked and reared waiting to be unleashed by the starting flag. Boots stamped, hands wringed and thoughts raced as the clock counted down. At exactly 10 am and 3 seconds the flag fell. Bodies 18 LION’S ROAR WINTER 2023

contorted, wracked by age and wet underpants, sprang like cheetahs, lunging towards the fleet of prepared / should-havebeen-already-scrapped-mopeds.

The conflagration of grass and mud below them trembled under the weight of their advance. The 80-metre dash, a marathon to some, was swept aside as the riders pounced onto the bikes.

Some thundered away, some whimpered, with bikes screaming underneath the starting archway into that first right-hander, legs outstretched, elbows pointed, working those 50 cc engines hard.

For some, they smelt blood. For others, a more pungent odour once they’d realised low quality road tyres used in mud and rain were a poor tactical choice.

They reach the first “jump”.

The pack leader flew up the approach achieving up to 12 mph as they rolled quite gently down the other side. Firing around the next few corners with ease these soldiers of fortune entered the ultimate peril; The Ditch. 10 metres of soaking wet mud, mush and half bricks discarded by builders past. For the initiated, a test of skill, for the new, borderline

unachievable. Those professionals rattled through, wheels dancing over the terrain as the debutants wheezed into the quagmire.

They’d just crossed over that threshold into Mopedathon immortality as their limbs flailed, dragging their steads up the slope and out of the morass behind them. All flew around the first lap like their lives were already forfeit, winding around the sodden course until reaching the start and doing it all again.

Without them even realising, all the teams were already deified in BMCC lore having even dared to enter the event.

The fact they managed a single lap in conditions not seen since the Somme was unbelievable, almost fantastical.

The hours rolled by with machines and riders slumping into the pits, both with less parts than they started with. Bikes missing

plastics, jockeys missing faith and hope. Relatively new BMCC member Flt Lt Rich Misselbrook powered round alone and unafraid, the only Ironman entry.

That task of completing six hours alone playing in his thoughts but he steeled his mind. Teeth gritted, gut sucked in, he arrogantly posed for pictures as he rode by the others languishing in the pit.

The camaraderie of teams was compelling. That strange dichotomy of clambering to win but wanting a race meant that the sharing of parts, fuels and mechanical expertise was rife in the pit. “There is no fight without the enemy”, they all thought.

Three and a half hours had gone by with only three bikes remaining on track, the rain and mud having taken a terrible toll on these wretched assemblies of metal and rubber. The officer in charge of the madness had to make a hard decision, as had so many commanders before him.

Just like Montgomery, this was his Market Garden. Did he continue to fire the troops in the melee or beat a retreat to lick wounds and fight again another day? The event committee assembled to discuss that grim notion of stopping the

Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability

BENSON MOTORCYCLE CLUB MOPEDATHON

event early. Nearing tears, it was decided; it was to finish at 1400, two hours less than planned. The competitors were assembled and, with a lump in his throat, the OIC gave the grave news. Much to his shock, all were delighted, smiles beaming back through the mass of muddied hair and dirtied faces.

The end crept up on the riders as the chequered flag fell four hours after the whole enterprise was set in motion.

Team Draken was so overcome with emotion, their rider threw themselves to the floor, 5 metres from the line. Like a scene from Platoon, he threw his arms to the sky before crawling back to his machine and crossing the line for the final time.

Each person had entered the history books. Each moped had paid a price. Some had been only glanced by the Reaper yet others fully swallowed up in his foul cloak

www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

of fate. Misselbrook had achieved greatness having finished the event completing the most laps as an individual. He broke down sobbing claiming this was the only thing he had left in an otherwise miserable existence. Grant Perrin from the local motorbike mechanics GP Performance, with his counterpart Justin Heavens, took the ultimate prize of rolling over the line having completed 83 laps of this pure torture, far more than any other team could muster.

As anyone could have predicted, at event finish the rain finally gave up its strangle hold on the sky. Those dark, damp, leaden pillows parted, and a heavenly golden orb heated the earth, bathing the drenched participants with its warm healing glow. Those rays lapped around them, baptising them, heralding their rebirth as motorsport leviathans. Only those who entered know the true story of this display of tenacity, misery, and determination. We can only aspire to be those glorious few.

Picture credits to Sgt Lewis Powell, 28 Sqn.

WINTER 2023 LION’S ROAR 19

HIVE

HIVE

HIVE – The HIVE Information Officer, Mrs Janine AnstyBridges is situated between in the Community Centre where a warm welcome awaits you.

The RAF Benson HIVE Service supports the Chain of Command and tri-Service community through the provision of up to date and relevant information.

RAF HIVE Information Officer can provide an extensive range of information on relocation, local facilities, schools and further education, housing, healthcare facilities, employment and training COMMUNITY SUPPORT TEAM Community Support Officer Meg Wickett BEN-BSW-CDO@mod.gov.uk Station Community Support Officer WO Phil Withey BEN-BSW-SCSO@mod.gov.uk Padre 1 Rev (Sqn Ldr) Paul Stephens paul.stephens104@mod.gov.uk Chaplaincy Clk Mrs Sharon Waters sharon.waters934@mod.gov.uk Stn Youth Worker Hannah Wilson Hannah.Wilson@oneymca.org Personal and Family Support Worker Deborah Wise Deborah.wise@ssafa.org.uk Personal and Family Support Worker Faye Grant Faye.grant@ssafa.org.uk Welfare Administrator Kathy Porat Kathy.porat@ssafa.org.uk 20 LION’S ROAR WINTER 2023

opportunities. Information on future relocations is one of the key areas of information support and is available either in advance or on arrival at the receiving unit.

RAF HIVE staff are also involved in providing Operational deployment support, including distributing deployment support resources.

If you would like to contact me, please email BEN-BSW-HIO@ mod.gov.uk or call 01491 827213.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT WEEKLY PLANNER Stn Church Morning Prayer every Mon – Fri 0830 – 0900 For more information email: BEN-BSW-Chaplaincy@ mod.gov.uk

PLAYGROUPS Little Cherubs Structured Playgroup Sessions run every Monday and Thursday morning from 0930 – 1130 in the Soft Play Area, Community Centre.

Oxfordshire Play Association Sessions run every Tuesday 1000 -1200 in the Soft Play Area, Community Centre and Saturdads runs every other Saturday.

For more information email: BEN-BSW-HIO@mod.gov.uk AIRPLAY GROUPS Ben Club Session run every Tuesday from 1615 – 1730 for children aged 5 – 8 years.

Inters Youth Club Session runs every Tuesday 1800 – 2000 for children aged 12+ Airplay Juniors Session runs every Wednesday from 1630 – 1800 for children aged 8 – 10 years.

Social Work Team Lead Amy Suttling Amy.suttling@ssafa.org.uk

Airplay Forum Session runs every Wednesday from 1830 – 1930.

Social Work Regional Manager Joanne Harper Joanne.harper@ssafa.org.uk

For more information regarding these groups, email: Hannah.Wilson@oneymca.org

WELCOME TO RAF BENSON GATHERING Are you newly arrived into station and want to meet the Station Community Support Team? Why not pop along to the Common Room, right hand side of the Shuttleworth Mess for a free coffee and followed by a windscreen tour of the Station. Open to everyone.

SCOUTING GROUPS Cubs Group runs every Monday from 1830 -2000 for children aged 8 – 10.5 years.

The Community Support Team will be there every 1st Wednesday of every month from 1000 – 1130.

We look forward to meeting you all soon.

Beavers Group runs every Tuesday from 1800 – 1930 for children aged 6 – 8 years.

Scouts Group runs every Wednesday from 1830 – 2030 for children aged 10.5 – 14 years.

Explorers Group runs every Friday from 1900 – 2100 for children aged 14 – 18 years.

For more information about scouting, email: Raf-benson@ thameschilternscouts.org.uk

WEEKLY CLINICS Mortgage Advice Clinic Appointments held fortnightly on Thursdays with representatives of Lexion Financial Services.

Solicitor Clinic Appointments held every alternate Wednesdays with Richard Rodway from the Head Partnership in Henley.

To book an appointment, please contact the HIVE Information Officer on Ext 7213 or email: BEN-BSW-HIO@mod.gov.uk GIRLGUIDING GROUPS Rainbows – 1700 – 1815 Brownies – 1800 – 1930 Guides – 1800 – 1930 Groups runs every Thursday.

For more details email: Rainbows: rafbensonrainbows@ hotmail.com Brownies: RAFBensonBrownies@ btinternet.com Guides: Rafbensonguides@ outlook.com THRIFT SHOP Monday – 0930 – 1130 Tuesday 0830 – 1030 Wednesday 0930 – 1130 First Saturday of every month – 1000 – 12-00 For more information email: Simon.Bird869@mod.gov.uk Ceramics Club Monday 1830 – 20.30, email: Jennifer.brown323@mod.gov.uk Oxfordshire Mind Tuesday 0830 – 1630 email: RAFBENSON@ oxfordshiremind.org.uk BROGA Tuesday - 1200 – 1300, Bookings through the Myzone App via the gym.

Military Wives Choir Wednesday 1900 – 2045 Held in the church benson@militarywiveschoir.org

Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability

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Hacks, Hunters, Ponies, Competition Horses and Hobby Horses, Ridden, driven or retired – we can accommodate them all.

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Calor and Campingaz cylinders Regulators & Fittings Stocked

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THANK YOU We’d like to thank everyone for their incredible support this year.

Without you donating via Service Day’s Pay Giving, completing fundraising challenges, or signposting friends and colleagues who need our help, we wouldn’t be able to provide essential support to other RAF serving personnel, veterans, and their families.

Whether it’s tackling financial difficulties, providing access to counselling, or offering respite holidays, we’ve been able to help in so many ways and we’ll continue to be here for you for as long as you need.

Your continued support is deeply appreciated, and we look forward to standing side by side with you in 2024. Thank you for being part of our RAF Family!

Find out how you can get involved and how we can support you: rafbf.org SCAN ME WITH YOUR CAMERA

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The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109)

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theiet.org/easy-resettlement Heather Brophy, MOD Development Manager heatherbrophy@theiet.org * More information can be found by asking your Trade or Branch Sponsor about the Engineering Professional Registration Award (EPRA).

The Institution of Engineering and Technology is registered as a Charity in England and Wales (No. 211014) and Scotland (No. SC038698).

The Institution of Engineering and Technology, Michael Faraday House, Six Hills Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2AY, United Kingdom.

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BOARDING IN SURREY

GORDON’S SCHOOL www.gordons.school

YEARS 7, 9 AND 12 BOARDING PLACES AVAILABLE Students who attend the boarding school provision exceed their predicted outcomes and consistently reach, and further, their potential OFSTED BOARDING INSPECTION REPORT 2019

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BOARDING FROM UNDER £800 PER TERM WITH CEA

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GORDON’S SCHOOL

Boarding schools have come a long way since the tales of cold showers, uncaring, strict staff and huge dormitories filled with rows of home sick children. These days the emphasis is on patience and guiding students as they navigate social interactions, mental health issues and meeting the high expectations of the school, all that while being away from home for the first time, starting in a new school and living with 30 other peers. In an increasingly uncertain world, boarding provides a balanced, consistent constant.

Nowadays, boarding is often described as ‘one big sleepover’ by students, who regard it as very much a ‘home from home’: secure, friendly places where not only can they flourish academically, but also learn tolerance, resilience, discipline, independence - and make life-long friends in the process.

Evenings and weekends are packed with activities, both external and in-house, and as well as large grounds and facilities, children can enjoy the company of perhaps hundreds of others every day and weekend.

Gordon’s School, built over a century ago at the express wish of Queen Victoria, as the national monument to General Gordon, is listed as one of Britain’s outstanding schools by Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector. A non-selective, co-educational state day and boarding school, set in some 50 acres of Surrey parkland close to London, the School is in the top 5% of all schools in England and Wales for progress at A Level.

However, Gordon’s is so much more than its academic results.

The School’s ethos is that high performance without good character is not true success. So it’s not just the classrooms where students excel. Successes are also achieved in drama; the arts; debating; public speaking; dance and sport and in the enviable record of Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

The Boarding House is run as an extension of their home – the kitchen door is always open and their children and dog running around. Saturday morning pancakes in their kitchen are a weekly treat! Students feel comfortable, safe and secure - it’s their term time home and their aim is to make them feel that way.

While extra support may be provided in the classrooms to make up for any gaps in their education or to stretch and challenge the children, Mr and Mrs Cooper see their job as keeping the atmosphere in the boarding house positive, upbeat and fun, as well as helping their charges to become more independent and organised.

All students are encouraged to ‘have a go’ at sport, whether for their House or School and the school provides every opportunity to progress in their chosen field through the extensive facilities and coaches, many of whom have played on the international arena.

A new sports hub and additional all-weather pitch have been added to the Surrey site and the school partners Harlequins, providing a pathway for talented rugby players to achieve their potential both on and off the pitch. There are also partnerships with Superleague netball club Surrey Storm, Vanarama League Football Club Aldershot Town FC and the National Shooting Centre.

As well as sport, there are over 128 co-curricular choices for students every week, from Brazilian Jujitsu to Robotics Club and every child experiences the thrill of outdoor pursuits through the Combined Cadet Force, a tri-service offering students training in the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force services or through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.

Over 70 per cent of the boarders at Gordon’s are from Service or Diplomatic families, attracted to the school by its experience and expertise in looking after these children, who may have been uprooted from many schools and countries before their arrival. Boarding offers these children a constant, a place away from perhaps the worry of a parent on active service.

While the individual is celebrated, the whole School unites for parades. Since its inception, as a national memorial to General Gordon, students have marched and there has always been a Pipes and Drums band. Dressed in their Blues uniform, the students parade around eight times a year and the school is the only one permitted to march along Whitehall - an annual tradition in remembrance of General Gordon.

There are three main admission points – at 11 and 13 years old and for Sixth Form. Those coming into the school in Year 7 as residential boarders, are housed together for the first year, becoming part of the extended Woolwich family, headed by Houseparents Sam and Daisy Cooper.

The real judgement of Gordon’s is the students. Visitors are struck by the friendliness, discipline and vibrancy throughout the school and by the family atmosphere, exemplified by the special rapport between staff and students.

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