On Wednesday 17 July, the Defence Academy hosted a ‘Widening Participation’ event for teenagers from multiple London schools to experience and gain insight into the military function.
The event was co-organised by staff from King’s College London, Joint Services Command and Staff College (JSCSC), Defence College for Military Capability Integration (DCMCI), Defence Futures (formerly the Development, Concepts and Doctrine Centre), and the Wargaming Network.
Students were treated to a range of activities, including an interactive wargame, and tours of the Technology Hub and JSCSC. There were also student-led debates and workshops with military and academic staff on issues surrounding the military function and the changing character of security.
Following the visit, students are co-creating a 2000-word think piece to be published by Defence Futures, in their 25th Anniversary essay collection. This will appear alongside articles contributed by leading figures including the Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin and Professor Sir Hew Stachan.
The event highlighted the unique value that the Defence Academy can provide for students seeking to understand opportunities available to them, both in Higher Education and by informing the thinking of military leaders.
The event was supported by partners across the Defence Academy, with personnel and organisations working together in a flexible way to support aspiring school students. It provided a critical foundation and proof of concept for an ongoing programme of outreach activities being developed for schools across the Swindon area.