LEH Alumna Wing Commander Sasha Nash Takes Command of the Red Arrows in Historic RAF Appointment

Wing Commander Sasha Nash, Class of 2002, has been promoted to Officer Commanding of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, in a landmark achievement for both the Royal Air Force and the LEH community.

This week marks Wing Commander Nash’s first full week as the most senior officer in the Red Arrows. In her new role, she will command a team of approximately 150 RAF and civilian personnel at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire, with full responsibility for all aspects of the team’s operations.

Her appointment is being celebrated at LEH as a powerful source of inspiration for current students especially those who are considering a career in the Armed Forces. Nathan Cousins, Head of Outdoor Education and Acting Pilot Officer Contingent Commander LEH CCF (RAF) proudly states "It's fabulous news about the appointment of Wg Cdr Nash. Within our current LEH CCF (RAF) contingent we have two cadets who are set on pursuing a career in the RAF, one as an engineer and one in fast jets.  Wg Cdr Nash’s career to date and appointment is an inspiration to these two as well as the rest of our cadets and we wish her continued success.  The LEH CCF (RAF), delivered in partnership with Hampton School, offers a structured extra-curricular programme for students providing a co-educational experience and focuses on developing the key personal attributes, of communication, leadership, confidence, responsibility and teamwork."

 Wing Commander Nash’s journey from school pupil to one of the most prestigious command roles in the RAF demonstrates how ambition, dedication and resilience can lead to extraordinary careers. Staff and pupils alike have praised her achievement as a reminder that no career path is beyond reach.

A former Tornado GR4 fast-jet pilot, Wing Commander Nash has flown frontline operational tours in Afghanistan and brings extensive experience to the role. As Officer Commanding, she will oversee the planning, training and delivery of the Red Arrows’ internationally recognised displays, alongside the management and welfare of the wider unit.

Reflecting on her appointment, Wing Commander Nash described the role as “a career opportunity of a lifetime”.

“If someone had told me 20 years ago that one day I would be Officer Commanding of the Red Arrows, I do not think I would have believed it,” she said.

Her passion for aviation began at a young age. 

“I was a six-year-old girl when I decided I wanted to join the Royal Air Force and fly fast jets,” she said. “That ambition stayed with me throughout school, where I achieved a sixth form scholarship and a subsequent university bursary to join the RAF.”

Wing Commander Nash’s success serves as a powerful role model for current LEH students, particularly those considering careers in aviation, engineering, leadership or the armed forces. Her appointment highlights the importance of self-belief and perseverance, and stands as a proud moment for the entire LEH community.