Combined Cadet Force
Formed in 1898 the Combined Cadet Force celebrated its centenary in 1998 with a parade of 300 cadets and displays by the Armed Services including a military band, a parachuting, display, helicopters and armoured vehicles. The day finished with a dinner for former pupils who had joined the Services.
The CCF has now changed from an optional to purely voluntary activity. A special period on the timetable is reserved for the NCOs (Non Commissioned Officers) to prepare their training and for pupils new to the school in the Sixth Form to start their training. The main work is then done after school on Monday nights from 1630hrs to 1745hrs.
During the transition from compulsory to voluntary attendance, the numbers dropped initially but with a change in staff personalities and an overhaul in the CCF programme, Totals have risen dramatically in the past 12 months and now boasts 170 cadets across the Army and Royal Air Force sections.
Training is now a lot more exciting with numerous activities planned throughout the year. In addition to each Section’s Field day and annual summer camps, there are Military Training weekends, Range days, Adventure Training packages and regional competitions, the majority, open to members of both sections. For the keener still, there is a variety of Divisional courses available, ranging from leadership to adventure training proficiency.
Most cadets sign up onto the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, where 3 of the modules in the early part of the Award can be completed at the same time, without too much extra work involved.
The CCF seeks to develop self-reliance, initiative and leadership whilst giving an appreciation of the role of the services at the present day.