Combined Cadet Force (CCF)
At the start of their second year boys 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 boys who join each year choose between Royal Marines, Army and RAF sections with the Royal Marines operating a selection system meaning each section recruits 20, 50 and 20 cadets each year. Boys that 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.
In the fifth form and beyond
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, and recently twelve cadets went on a cross-country skiing expedition to Norway.
Preparation for a section attack in water
