A south Bucks university has been recognised for its work with the Armed Forces.

Bucks New University in Queen Alexandra Road, High Wycombe, received the government’s silver award under its employment recognition scheme which encourages employers to “support defence and inspire others to do the same”.

The university was nominated by an RAF Reservist (a former RAF Regular) who started working there part-time and was “struck” by the positivity of university personnel who gave him time off “at a moment’s notice” to fulfil his commitments to the force.

Personnel from the RAF and Royal Navy are also studying Organisational Capability Development in partnership with the University, with the first cohort set to graduate in September.

Wayne Palmer, senior lecturer in Military and Computing, accepted the award from the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson, on behalf of Bucks New University in a presentation ceremony on board HMS Victory in Portsmouth.

He said: “It is fantastic that our work with the Armed Forces has been recognised by this prestigious award.

“The Organisational Capability Development course that we have developed especially for the RAF and Royal Navy has been highly successful.

“However, we must not forget the plethora of other courses that attract the Armed Forces.

“Bucks New University is building a reputation as a significant provider of Higher Education to the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force.”

According to the government website, the silver award is given to those who:

  • Demonstrate support for service personnel issues and employ at least one member of the armed forces community.
  • Actively communicate and uphold a positive stance to their employees via established HR policies and procedures.
  • Show flexibility towards annual training commitments and mobilisation of reservist employees and
  • Support the employment of cadet instructors, armed forces veterans and military spouses or partners.

Phillip Wood MBE, head of school, management and professional studies, said: “Although this award recognises the university's commitment to supporting its former and reservist employees and the wider defence community, it also reflects our mission to be a provider of choice for those within or due to leave HM Armed Forces in their search for qualifications that match their skills and planned careers.”