The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is a unique educational partnership that operates in schools across the UK. Through enjoyable military themed and adventurous activities, cadets have the opportunity to take responsibility, develop skills such as leadership, self-reliance, resourcefulness, endurance and perseverance.
CCF is a compulsory part of the curriculum at Gad’s Hill for all pupils from Lower Fourth to Upper Fifth. We firmly believe that the development of core personal strengths, such as self-confidence, self-discipline, resilience, teamwork and leadership is every bit as important for young people as their academic progress.
Our cadets are involved in a high level of community engagement, with cadets representing the school on Remembrance Sunday, Corps Memorial Day, the General Gordon Parade, Armed Forces Day and Mayoral inauguration. Training is further enhanced with optional enrichment activities such as Fieldcraft days, Overnight exercises, Range days and other supporting activities. These run throughout each term, and culminate in the CCF annual camp, whereby all skills are honed and tested. The Department of Education and the Ministry of Defence fully endorse the cadet movement. As such, the majority of costs and equipment are provided for through a generous grant. However, at times, a small cost may be sought for perishable items and feeding.
In their weekly sessions, cadets undertake a range of activities including Skill at Arms, Fieldcraft, First Aid, Navigation, Drill, Command tasks and Adventurous training. Our cadets also study, via their CCF sessions, for a BTEC Level 2 in Teamwork and Personal Development, an Institute of Leadership & Management Diploma, and an Emergency First Aid at Work qualification, to go alongside their academic GCSEs as evidence of the well-rounded, confident young leaders that they have become.
As cadets progress, through the syllabus, they are promoted on merit and are encouraged to take part in the instruction and training of new recruits, as Junior NCOs. This type of experience is invaluable as cadets learn the key skills required to communicate, manage and lead those in their care. Certainly, the value of this alone has proven particularly beneficial for those furthering their education or entering the workplace.
The CCF Army aims to prepare young people for lifelong success and inspire cadets to achieve, whilst promoting the qualities of responsibility, self-reliance, resourcefulness and a sense of service to the community. Of paramount importance, throughout all we do, is that cadets enjoy a fun, enjoyable experience in a totally safe environment. There is absolutely no commitment, or expectation, for cadets to join the regular Armed Forces when they have completed their schooling.
