Introduction and Benefits
Our Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is a partnership between the school and the Ministry of Defence (MoD). WHGS CCF is one of the longest established cadet forces in the country, being 105 years-old in 2020. WHGS CCF has an Army section and is affiliated with the Duke of Lancaster’s Army Regiment.
The tradition of cadet units in schools goes back to the 1850s, with the CCF being formed in 1948, covering cadets from all three Services.
The CCF helps young people to develop and reach their full potential through challenging, active, adventurous and fun activities. Cadets will have the opportunity to build new friendships, grow their confidence, and take on responsibilities.
The CCF is excellent for personal development as cadets will develop skills such as team-work, co-operation, leadership, responsibility, independence, self-discipline, resourcefulness, resilience, and determination.
Participation in the CCF is highly regarded by employers and college/university admissions tutors and students are given the opportunity to earn qualifications such as the Duke of Edinburgh's award through the CCF.
The interim findings of an October 2017 independent report, compiled by the University of Northampton, found that joining the cadets offers a range of benefits to the individuals involved and the wider community. Click here for more information.
Structure
Students will join the CCF as a junior cadet. As cadets develop their skills, they may be given the opportunity to take responsibility for a small group of cadets as a junior non-commissioned officer (JNCO). As JNCOs grow in confidence and develop their leadership skills, they may be asked to become a senior non-commissioned officer (SNCO), supporting the adult volunteers to plan/run activities and deliver lessons.
Activities
The CCF offers a unique and broad range of activities, such as:
- Adventurous Training
- Camps
- Drill and Turnout
- Expeditions
- Fieldcraft
- First Aid
- Leadership
- Marksmanship
- Navigation Training
- Signals
- Skill at Arms
When
Our CCF parades every Thursday afternoon, 3-5 pm. There will also be several weekend activities throughout the year.
Joining
Participation in the CCF is voluntary. WHGS students in Year 8 and above are eligible to join. You are not expected or encouraged to pursue a military career, but if you are considering one, the CCF would provide an excellent first step.
A Pre-Cadet recuritment programme takes place in the Summer Term of Year 7.
Students wishing to join the CCF will need to complete a joining form and have all sections completed and signed by a parent/carer. Click here to download a copy of the joining form.
Further Information
https://combinedcadetforce.org.uk/