SSCE CYMRU hit the road last winter, hosting five Armed Forces Festivals at military bases across Wales, including three Reserve units in Cardiff, Haverfordwest and Flintshire, along with RAF Valley in Anglesey and the Infantry Battle School in Brecon.
A total of 348 service children and 35 of their peers from 45 schools in 19 local authorities gathered together, transforming each venue into a buzzing hub of connection, creativity and pride.
The festivals were all about bringing Armed Forces-connected children and young people together in a space where their experiences were understood and celebrated. Pupils took part in hands-on workshops which explored history, health and wellbeing, creative arts and team-building challenges. One service child said: “I loved the workshops because they all involved teamwork. I made a friend.”
When asked what their favourite workshop was, another said: “Medical/CPR because they taught us how to save someone’s life.”
A teacher described a fantastic and inspiring day for pupils. “The activities were engaging, the performances motivated the pupils, and the whole atmosphere made them feel included and valued.”
The sessions were supported by Never Such Innocence, World War Wales, Character Education & Life Skills (CELS), Forces Fitness, VC Gallery, Veterans for Dogs, Oriel Môn, the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum and engagement teams from the Army and RAF.
Visit sscecymru.co.uk to find out more and see what the team was up to during Month of the Military Child in April.