Hulme Grammar School celebrates Armed Forces Week with inspiring panel and covenant signing
Date published: 23 June 2025
Held in the Hulme Grammar’s historic Small Hall, the event brought together students, alumni, and distinguished guests from across the military and local civic communities
Hulme Grammar School marked the start of Armed Forces Week with a special panel Q&A event and the official signing of the Armed Forces Covenant, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.
Held in the school’s historic Small Hall, the event brought together students, alumni, and distinguished guests from across the military and local civic communities.
Year 10 and Year 12 pupils gathered for an engaging morning of discussion, inspiration, and reflection on the service and sacrifices made by Armed Forces personnel, veterans, reservists, and their families.
The event was compered by alumnus Cllr Luke Lancaster (Class of 2016), who welcomed a prestigious panel including: Chris Anslow – Veteran and Invictus Games medallist and Major Eddy Hardaker – Regimental Administrative Officer.
Following a structured Q&A session, pupils had the opportunity to pose their own questions to the panel, sparking thoughtful conversation about careers, service, and resilience.
A highlight of the morning was a careers talk from Darcy Pankhurst, an Army scholarship recipient from Birkenhead School, who shared her inspiring journey toward a future military career.
The event concluded with the ceremonial signing of the Armed Forces Covenant by Hulme Grammar Principal and senior pupils, alongside Louisa Blakemore, Regional Employer Engagement Director at the Ministry of Defence.
The Covenant represents the school’s formal pledge to support serving and former Armed Forces members and their families within its community.
Guests in attendance included:
· Alan Noble, President, Oldham Royal British Legion
· Ron Oates, Chairman, Oldham Royal British Legion
· Ken Rustidge, Councillor for Oldham
Principal Mrs Kirsten Pankhurst said: “This was a truly moving and memorable morning for our school.
"The Armed Forces play an extraordinary role in our society, and by signing the Covenant, we’re proud to honour that contribution and strengthen our support for members of the military community, both within our school and beyond.”
The morning closed with refreshments and photographs, with banners and commemorative staging proudly highlighting Hulme Grammar School’s commitment to service, leadership, and civic responsibility.
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