Bridgend College strengthens its alliance with the Armed Forces community with a Silver award
10/09/2025We are delighted that Bridgend College is one of 17 organisations in Wales, and among more than 300 nationally, to have achieved the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for 2025.
The Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) encourages employers to support those who have served in the armed forces and their families, ensuring they enjoy the same access to opportunities, as well as inspiring other organisations to do the same. The scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
The College was awarded a Bronze award in 2024 and has since expanded its TEACH programme, run in conjunction with the Active4Blood Charity. The TEACH programme harnesses the extensive transferable skills and experience gained by Veterans and provides them with career development support and a pathway into education, training and assessing roles across Wales. During the programme and on completion, Veterans will be able to pursue a range of teaching and training roles. The College has appointed Veteran Julian Wilde-Davies as a Public Service Tutor and Coordinator, who has played a key role in engaging with the Armed Forces Reserves, cadets, and Veteran-focused organisations.
âI am incredibly proud to help the College receive the Silver ERS Award, a testament to its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community. The success of our TEACH programme, in partnership with Active4Blood Charity, highlights the power of collaboration in creating meaningful opportunities for Veterans in education and beyond.â
Julian Wilde-Davies, Public Service Tutor and Coordinator
Several participants of the programme have already been provided with the opportunity to deliver health education sessions on behalf of Active4Blood in schools across South and North Wales. Andrew Wilce, Veteran and Reservist, has praised tutors on the programme for their guidance and support, which proved invaluable during Andrewâs time transitioning into civilian life.
âThe delivery partnership is more than a training provider; it is a vital support system. It offers real, tangible qualifications that can lead to gainful employment or serve as a stepping stone to further opportunities.â
Andrew Wilce, Veteran and Reservist
The awards ceremony, which was attended by former and serving military personnel, was held at the Pierhead Building in Cardiff Bay on 17th July, followed by an impressive Royal Gun Salute.
