We are incredibly proud of our Year 12 student Atipa Mugoro, who recently represented our school and the Royal Marines Cadets in one of the most significant events in the Royal Marines calendar, the annual Graspan Parade in central London.

The Graspan Parade is the largest annual parade dedicated to the Royal Marines, steeped in history and tradition. It centres around the Graspan Memorial, located near Admiralty Arch, which commemorates the Battle of Graspan during the Boer War in 1899. Since its re-dedication in 2000, the memorial has honoured all Royal Marines who have served their country by land and sea.

The parade began at the iconic Horse Guards Parade, proceeding through central London past landmarks such as St James’s Palace and Buckingham Palace, before culminating at the Graspan Memorial. This year’s event featured around 250 participants, including the Royal Marines Band, serving Royal Marine Commandos, veterans, and Royal Marines Cadets, all marching in solemn remembrance of those who have fallen.

Not only did Atipa have the honour of marching alongside the Royal Marines, but this year’s parade also coincided with the VE Day commemorations, adding a deeper sense of historical significance.  

Atipa said, ‘I’ve been a member of the Royal Marines Cadets for almost three years now and to have the opportunity to take part in this year’s Graspan parade was a monumental moment in my cadet career. I remember seeing the stage setup for the VE Day concert as we fell in for the parade — it made the event even more special. Attending this event has helped to further influence me to pursue a career in the Royal Marines Band Service. Also, as part of this year's Armed Forces Day (AFD) commemorations in Kettering, I will be the Senior Drum Major for the SCC Massed Bands on parade with the Royal Anglian Regiment on the 8th of June 2025 for the AFD/ Freedom of Kettering.’

A highlight of the day for Atipa was witnessing a performance by the Royal Marines Band Portsmouth, also known as the Royal Band, a unit Atipa aspires to join in the future. He said, ‘Marching off to ‘Under the White Ensign’ was by far my favourite part of the parade.’

Following the parade, Atipa had the opportunity to meet key figures from the Royal Marines Association (RMA), including Phil Gilby MBE, the Membership Operations Director.

Atipa’s dedication, discipline, and ambition are truly commendable, and we look forward to seeing where his journey takes him next.