Old Swinford Hospital (OSH), a leading state boarding school in Stourbridge, West Midlands, has become the latest ambassador school for BSA’s ASPIRE programme.
ASPIRE provides a structured resettlement pathway for members of the Armed Forces community interested in boarding school roles. The programme combines specialist training and mentoring with opportunities to gain first-hand experience of life in a boarding environment.
Graeme Wright, Head of OSH, said:
“As a former Royal Marine who went on to build a career in education, I strongly support the ASPIRE scheme and the opportunities it creates for veterans to enter the boarding sector. The military (and other public services) develop qualities such as resilience, leadership, teamwork, and a strong sense of service, all of which are invaluable in a boarding environment.
“I am delighted that OSH is joining ASPIRE and helping to create new pathways for talented veterans to continue serving others through education.”
Mark Mortimer, Associate Director of Military Defence Services at BSA, said:
“We are delighted to welcome OSH as an ASPIRE ambassador school. Graeme’s own journey from the Royal Marines into education is a great example of the successful transition that ASPIRE is designed to support. OSH’s support will help us introduce more talented service leavers and veterans to the opportunities available.”
Duke of York’s Royal Military School, Hurstpierpoint College, Rugby School, St Catherine’s Bramley and Wycliffe College are also ASPIRE ambassador schools. Find out more about the scheme at boarding.org.uk/aspire.
