Rydal Penrhos receives the Ministry of Defence’s highest employer recognition for supporting the Armed Forces community.
Rydal Penrhos has been awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award by the Ministry of Defence; a prestigious national recognition for organisations offering outstanding support to the Armed Forces.
Only twelve Welsh employers were honoured with the Gold Award in 2025. Rydal Penrhos is the only independent school among them, reaffirming its position as a leading advocate for military families, veterans, Reservists, and Cadet Force volunteers.
This accolade represents far more than recognition of good work; it reflects an alignment of values. Integrity, leadership, resilience and community lie at the heart of Armed Forces service, and equally, at the core of a Rydal Penrhos education. To achieve Gold status, organisations must not only implement robust internal policies, but also demonstrate visible advocacy and long-term commitment within their sector. In every respect, Rydal Penrhos meets and exceeds these expectations.
The school proudly maintains strong partnerships with Armed Forces organisations, including RAF Valley, the Queen’s Dragoon Guards, and the Royal Navy Engagement Team. Our Combined Cadet Force (CCF) regiment, the only CCF in the UK sponsored by the 1st Queen’s Dragoon Guards, continues to deliver outstanding extra-curricular leadership opportunities for pupils.
The Gold ERS Award is the latest in a series of high-profile recognitions arising from our armed forces engagement. Mr Emyr Owen, a Rydal Penrhos teacher and veteran, was recently awarded a Bronze Award for Inspiration of the Year at the Welsh Veterans Awards, while Sixth Form pupil Ceylin has been named Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Clwyd. These honours underscore the lived impact of our Armed Forces engagement.
Receiving the ERS Gold Award is a significant milestone — and confirmation of what so many already know: Rydal Penrhos is one of the UK’s most Forces-friendly schools.
If you are a member of the Armed Forces community and seeking a school that truly understands your journey, we would be delighted to meet you. Complete our enquiry form below, or contact our Admissions team directly on admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or 01492 530155.
