Combined Cadet Force

Overall a good term for the CCF. Yes, COVID did hugely reduce what we could achieve but we did achieve everything we could! The only CCF in the area to commence training at the start of term and the only cadet force to manage a training day.

We had a huge boost from the new Year 10 intake, the largest I have ever seen. They also came with bags of enthusiasm and quickly took to the recruits’ section training. This was mainly focused on building self-confidence, resilience, team work, use of initiative, focus, responsibility and a bit of physical exercise. Sadly we have said goodbye to some members of staff - we say a fond farewell to Capt David Green and 2Lt Jaime Bassett. We wish them the best for the future. But positively, we welcome 2Lt Andy Lock, a parent of a child at the prep school and a volunteer with us now. He has considerable military experience including time in the Special Forces and has already taught the seniors in the Navy Section First Aid at Work, the full accredited qualification that would normally cost £300. We also welcome our new Sergeant ‘Odie’ Odendaal, a member of the school staff who has already deployed on EXERCISE FIRST LOOK with us.

The activities included a visit to Jupiter Point, a Royal Navy asset where the cadets have the opportunity to get out on the water. The weather was not good but only one group missed out on having a go in the power boats. This was led by Commander Bill Andrew, the Navy Section Commander, and he was assisted by Lt Lisa Williams, Lt Tim Lambie and Capt David Green. Sgt Smith, Sgt Hal Gamble and Lt Andy Lock ran an air rifle range. Sgt Gamble is a OPM volunteer and a member of the Army Reserves. The cadets’ preparation training for the Ex included weapon handling so that they could all have a go at shooting safely. This is part of the cadet syllabus that builds up to firing the SA80 (the Army assault rifle) both on live ranges and blank exercises.

Lt Steve Chapman was joined by Capt Rich Clark and Sgt ‘Odie’ Odendaal on running the casualty evacuation and grenade range stand. Capt Clark is an OPM and currently serving with the Royal Artillery, we are lucky that when we have training he comes and assists, bringing a wealth of young officer experience. Sgt Odendaal is the newest member of our team and a member of the school teaching staff. This was her first Ex and we are loving having her along. The casualty evacuation stand is the hardest physically as we have quite a heavy dummy ‘the Colonel’ who often needs to be carried over very difficult terrain. It builds teamwork and keeps the cadets warm!

The partnership with Stoke Damerel Community College is still going strong although COVID has required the students to be separated in their bubbles but we hope this will be relaxed more next term so that training can be more inclusive.

Looking forward, the CCF here will be 150 years old next year! We will plan a formal dinner night next May to celebrate and hope that COVID allows it to happen. We have had to delay two activities due to COVID, a Royal Navy visit to the training ship Hindustan and the Army seniors instruction course. Both will be re-booked for early next year.

Major C P Butterworth, Contingent Commander Combined Cadet Force