Askham Bryan College Celebrates Fifth Consecutive Armed Forces Covenant ERS Silver Award

Askham Bryan College is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for the fifth year running. This continued recognition reflects the College’s long-standing commitment to supporting members of the Armed Forces community, including ex-service personnel, Reservists, and staff involved in Combined Cadet Force (CCF) activities.

The ERS Silver Award acknowledges employers who actively demonstrate their support for defence personnel and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant. Askham Bryan College has maintained its Silver Award status for five consecutive years by fostering a workplace culture that recognises the unique skills, experience, and contributions of those transitioning from military to civilian careers.

As part of its commitment, the College provides a supportive environment for ex-Armed Forces personnel as they embark on second careers, ensuring they have access to the guidance, understanding, and flexibility needed during their transition. The College also supports employees who serve in the Reserve Forces by accommodating their training commitments and deployment requirements.

Mike Dudding, a current member of staff who has directly benefited from the support offered under the Armed Forces Covenant, shared the following reflection:

“Achieving the Silver Award for the Armed Forces Covenant-Employer Recognition Scheme reflects the supportive culture I have seen over the years now as a lecturer in Forestry and Arboriculture at Askham Bryan College. Coming from previously an Army Reserve career and being responsible for our Combined Cadet Force, the flexibility, understanding and encouragement I received allowed me to balance my service commitments alongside teaching and supporting our students. The College truly values the skills and experiences that ex-service personnel and reservists bring, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of that commitment.”

Principal and Chief Executive of Askham Bryan College, Dr Tim Whitaker, said:

“We are delighted to once again receive the ERS Silver Award. Our Armed Forces community contributes a wealth of experience and resilience to the College, and it remains a priority for us to ensure they feel supported and valued. Maintaining this award for five consecutive years demonstrates our continued dedication to the Armed Forces Covenant.”

Askham Bryan College is also proud to be a registered member of the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS), providing service leavers and Armed Forces personnel with access to financial support for further and higher education opportunities.