News & Events

News & Events / MPCT hosts VIP visit from Maj Gen CJ Bell CBE GOC ARITC

MPCT hosts VIP visit from Maj Gen CJ Bell CBE GOC ARITC

On Wednesday 12th August 2020, Motivational Preparation College for Training hosted a VIP visit from Maj Gen CJ Bell CBE GOC ARITC .

Forget the two metre rule, there was far more distance between MPCT Learners and their latest VIP’s when we hosted a ‘virtual VIP visit’ from Maj Gen CJ Bell CBE GOC ARITC, Cath Possamai CEO – Recruiting Group at British Army, Captain Dominic Stuckes SO3 Coord to GOC ARITC and WO1 (Comd SM) Sarah Cox RLC.

Utilising our newly acquired technological skills, we embarked on our first MPCT VIP Learner presentation. We were joined by representatives from MPCT Cardiff, MPCT Bishop Auckland and MPCT Teesside and our Regional Operation Managers from the North East, Mr Laurence Corbett and Mr Justin Edwards ROM Wales.

The visitors were impressed by our Learner’s presentations, icebreakers and delivery of the IF poem. Our young people shone despite the new way of holding a VIP visit. This provides them with valuable skills, experience and insight at a time when lock down restrictions caused by COVID-19 have stripped our young people of many opportunities.

Maj Gen CJ Bell CBE GOC ARITC congratulated each of Learners on the confidence they had displayed in presenting to VIP’s and commented that:

you are an inspiring bunch, and the British Army will nurture your talent, there you will flourish and who knows, become a future RSM, Captain or Major.

Maj Gen CJ Bell CBE GOC ARITC

To round the visit off,  the VIP’s held a virtual Q&A with the group of Learners that took part in the presentation today and are in the recruitment process or considering a career in the British Army.

What a fantastic opportunity for the Learners with aspirations of joining the British Army to speak directly with the General Officer Commanding Army Recruiting and Initial Training Command, Major General Bell CBE.

The virtual VIP visit was a huge success and the Staff and Learners of MPCT Cardiff, Bishop Auckland and Teesside showcased the very best that MPCT has to offer.

The purpose of the visit was to further foster the working relationship between the British Army Recruiting Group and MPCT, a relationship which is growing ever stronger by the minute.

Back to news articles

Visit your local MPCT Military Academy

Open Events – Summer 2025 – Inspiring the Next Generation of Young Leaders As part of our continued mission to prepare and empower young people for successful futures, MPCT Military Academies are proud to announce a series of Open Events for Summer 2025. These events are a chance for prospective learners, parents, and local communities...

Read more

North East Music Sensation Schak Visits MPCT Newcastle to Honour Armed Forces Week.

In celebration of Armed Forces Week, learners and staff at MPCT Newcastle were treated to a truly memorable experience as North East DJ and music star Schak visited the college to show his support and share his inspiring journey. Schak, known for his chart-topping dance anthems and energy on stage, took time out of his...

Read more

Honouring Armed Forces Day 2025: Training Tomorrow’s Heroes, Today.

As we approach Armed Forces Day 2025, MPCT is proud to stand alongside the rest of the UK in saluting the courageous men and women who serve, or have served, in our Armed Forces. This week, from the Royal Navy and British Army to the Royal Air Force, is dedicated to recognising the sacrifices, commitment...

Read more

MPCT Manchester Learner Named Finalist at GM Skills Awards 2025.

We are thrilled to announce that Miss Binesh Qureshi, a dedicated learner from MPCT Manchester, has been named a finalist in the Greater Manchester Skills Awards 2025. This outstanding recognition highlights her unwavering commitment, academic growth, and resilience throughout her learning journey. The GM Skills Awards celebrate the achievements of individuals across Greater Manchester who...

Read more

MPCT Learners Mark 80th Anniversary of VE Day with National Acts of Remembrance and a Special Role in Historic Film Project.

8th May 2025 marks 80 years since Victory in Europe Day, a turning point in global history that brought an end to the Second World War in Europe. At MPCT, we are proud to honour this significant milestone across all of our academies nationwide, embedding remembrance, respect, and service into the heart of our learner...

Read more

MPCT Expands National Reach with Opening of Three New Academies

MPCT is proud to announce the launch of three brand-new academies this May, continuing its mission to support young people through military-style education and personal development. The expansion marks another significant milestone for MPCT, as it brings its unique training and mentoring approach to three new locations: Luton, Norwich, and Peterborough. These academies will provide...

Read more