LDE UTC learners recently took part in the 20th anniversary Junior Leaders Field Gun competition, held at the historic Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich.
The landmark event brought together teams from across the Armed Forces, Royal Navy Cadets and civilian organisations for a week-long programme focused on teamwork, leadership and resilience under pressure. This year marked the first time the competition had been hosted at Woolwich Barracks, with participants competing beneath the backdrop of the site’s iconic Georgian façade. Teams included HMNB Clyde, HMS Sultan, HMS Raleigh, Fleet Air Arm, Royal Navy Cadets and LDE UTC. The Junior Leaders Field Gun competition challenges teams to race a field gun and limber across a track while carrying out a series of physically demanding drills requiring speed, communication, discipline and precision.
Throughout the week, learners developed technical understanding of the gun and limber, refined drill sequences and built the coordination required to compete effectively as a team. As the competition progressed, crews demonstrated increasing confidence, cohesion and determination, supported by strong camaraderie across all participating teams. Alongside the physical challenge, the event focused heavily on the Royal Navy’s core values of Courage, Commitment, Discipline, Respect, Integrity and Loyalty (C2DRIL), all of which were evident throughout the competition.
LDE UTC learners were recognised with two awards during the event:
- Wheelwrights Trophy – London Design & Engineering UTC
- Endeavour Trophy – London Design & Engineering UTC
The awards recognised the commitment, teamwork and resilience demonstrated by the learners across the week. The significance of the Endeavour Trophy was also highlighted by Danny Tregarthen AfCGI WO(SEA)(E), FOST Ships, who praised the attitude and determination shown by LDE UTC learners throughout the competition. Reflecting on the week, he said:
“This trophy is one of the standout awards at Junior Leaders Field Gun. It recognises the crews who have given their all throughout the week - those who fully embrace the competition, its spirit, and the environment around them. LDE was unanimously chosen to receive this trophy in recognition of their outstanding attitude and approach. While they may not have been the fastest crew and were the only true civilian team among military crews, they never let that deter them. They listened carefully, worked hard, and battled through the week with smiles and enjoyment."
He also praised the support provided by LDE UTC staff throughout the event, particularly in ensuring learners were able to fully participate despite early accommodation challenges. Reflecting on the event, organisers highlighted not only the high standard of competition, but the personal development shown by participants throughout the experience. The competition concluded with HMS Collingwood securing victory in the Grand Final following a week of intense racing and training.
Experiences such as the Junior Leaders Field Gun competition provide learners with opportunities to develop confidence, leadership and teamwork beyond the classroom, while working alongside military personnel, cadets and young people from across the UK.
We would also like to thank the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) for its continued support of the Junior Leaders Field Gun competition and the opportunities it creates for young people taking part.
We are incredibly proud of all learners who represented LDE UTC throughout the week.
At LDE UTC, we believe education extends beyond the classroom. Opportunities that develop resilience, leadership and teamwork are a vital part of preparing young people for future careers and life beyond education. To find out more about learner opportunities and enrichment get in touch with our team [email protected] or 020 3019 7333.
