Creative Forces Day: Empowering Service children to reach for the stars

Service Children from two local secondary schools recently gathered for an unforgettable Creative Forces Day, hosted by the Lincolnshire and East Midlands SCiP Alliance in partnership with LiNCHigher and Lincoln College University Centre. This unique event was designed to inspire and empower students from Armed Forces families in Years 9, 10, and 11, offering them a glimpse into higher education, a chance to connect with their peers, and the tools to start mapping their futures.

The day was brimming with hands-on activities that encouraged students to explore their identities, interests, and ambitions.

The morning kicked off with human bingo, a fun and interactive icebreaker that helped students connect with one another. Following this, participants joined a creative arts session where they painted coasters to reflect their unique identities as Service Children. This activity not only fostered self-expression but also created a safe space for meaningful conversations about the challenges and strengths that come with being part of an Armed Forces family.

Guided by knowledgeable guides, the group then explored the Lincoln College campus, from the sports facilities to social spaces, getting an insider’s perspective on what it would be like to study at Lincoln College. This tour offered students a glimpse of what their own academic journeys could look like and sparked excitement about future possibilities.

In the afternoon, students chose one of three career-focused sessions: policing, engineering, or sports.

In the engineering session, students took on an exciting challenge: rocket building. They worked in teams to design, build, and launch their own rockets, testing their creativity and problem-solving skills. This activity highlighted the possibilities of a future in STEM while adding a thrilling hands-on element to the day.

The day concluded with a goal-mapping session, where students reflected on their aspirations and began crafting pathways to achieve them. This empowering session encouraged young people to dream big and take practical steps toward their future success.

Jessica McNeill, LiNCHigher’s Community Events & Projects Officer said, “It was wonderful to welcome so many students from military families to the first Creative Forces Day of the academic year! The students enthusiastically participated in activities such as coaster painting and gained valuable insights during their university taster sessions. Positive feedback from both students and teachers made the day even more rewarding.

LiNCHigher are excited to host the next Creative Forces Day on Wednesday 12th February 2025, don’t miss it!”

The Head of Year 10 of one of the local secondary schools in attendance said, “The day was a great experience, allowing students to explore Lincoln College and experience a wide range of activities. It was overall a fantastic opportunity, allowing students to meet others who have had similar experiences to themselves.”

Don’t Miss the Next Creative Forces Day!

The next Creative Forces Day promises to be just as exciting and inspiring.

Date: Wednesday, 12th February 2025
Location: Bishop Grosseteste University

This free event is open to Lincolnshire Service Children in Years 9–11 with a parent or guardian currently serving or having served in the Armed Forces.

The day is free, and lunch is included! Schools need only handle transport and supervision, with a transport bursary available from LiNCHigher. For more information visit our Transport Bursary page.

Spaces are limited, so act fast to secure your spot! Email our Community Events and Projects Officer, Jess.