At the start of the Fourth Form, pupils must choose between joining the CCF and what is known as Basic Year, a non-military outward-bound option.
The CCF training is planned with 'serious fun' in mind. Our programme includes: shooting, physical training, first aid, fieldcraft, navigation, leadership, drill, unarmed combat, watermanship, campcraft, climbing, canoeing, hill walking as well as specialist skills related to all three sections - flying training in the RAF for example.
The CCF is voluntary albeit with a choice of only one other activity outside it. The 90 or so pupils who join each year choose between Royal Marines, Army, RAF and Navy sections, with the Royal Marines operating a selection system meaning each section recruits 20, 50 and 20 cadets each year. Pupils who opt to stay on are encouraged to join one of the Junior NCO Cadre courses on offer and generally prepare for NCO (non-commissioned officer) service within the CCF.
The Combined Cadet Force uses military training to develop character as well as teach self-reliance, leadership and other skills. The focus is very much on skills development and fun. After learning the basics such as weapon safety, military knowledge and other military skills, you will choose one of four very different options:
In case any parents have lost them, you may download copies of the CCF Parental Consent Form, and also the CCF Joiner's Notes that should have been sent to you.
To view the Forecast of Events for this year, please click here.
We run two camps each year.
Both these weeks are busy, adventurous and fun (and good value) but different in format:
Easter Adventure Camp – Saturday 23rd to Friday 29th March 2024
An adventure training camp based at the school mountain hut in Snowdonia. A six day mulit activity package involving biking, climbing, gorge walk, go karting and a two day mountain expedition. Cost £150
Summer Military Camp - Sat 29th June to Friday 5th July 2024
A camp run by British Army personnel – based at Nesscliff in Shropshire and includes an overnight exercise, shooting, leadership exercises etc. Both these weeks are busy, adventurous and fun. Cost for the Summer Camp is £100
Good NCOs are an absolute priority and their development continues to be the key part of our programme. We have introduced Cadre courses across the board and the core of this deals with Methods of Instruction and other leadership skills. We ask our NCOs to instruct wherever this is possible and try to give them real responsibility. Command appointments on exercises and leadership training weekends hopefully contribute towards a useful and enjoyable package.
Three annual Field Days are held, one per term with an additional voluntary weekend overnight exercise, again one per term. Summer and Easter Camps are held annually.
