COMBINED CADET FORCE
Following the successful introduction of our Combined Cadet Force (CCF) Unit in 2018, we now have over 80 cadets in Years 8, 9, 10 and 11.
We are the only school in Kirklees offering students this fantastic opportunity to participate in a broad range of challenging, exciting, adventurous and educational activities to develop personal responsibility, leadership, and self-discipline. Our activities aim to promote teamwork, service to others, and a sense of adventure.
Cadets are expected to complete their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and take part in a wide range of activities, including drill training, first aid, fieldcraft and expeditions.
In Year 8, students are invited to register their interest in being part of this exciting opportunity.
If you would like to find out more or if you have any questions, please visit www.combinedcadetforce.org.uk/ or email SSI Capt Corcoran at i.corcoran@honley.tlt.school or telephone 01484 506484.
Our Combined Cadet Force Unit (CCF) meets weekly after school on a Thursday from 3.05pm pm to 5.00pm. On their training day, Cadets are required to wear their full kit during the school day and are taught how to present in these items.
CCF training activities include military training with an emphasis on developing leadership skills, first aid, navigation, and fieldcraft. The CCF program also offers access to excellent free training and leadership courses under the auspices of the Armed Forces.
Throughout the school year (term breaks included), cadets attend three training weekends which draw on and develop the skills they have learned in training.
In addition, all CCF cadets are expected to attend a Central Annual Camp to benefit from the training and familiarisation opportunities they provide. These camps are fabulous value for money, as they are heavily subsidised and include all food and travel, accommodation and training activities. The Central Annual Camp is the culmination of the CCF year and the training and skills learned during it are essential in the development of the cadets’ CCF career. The Army Central Camp is organised and conducted by serving members of the Army with the object of developing our cadets in all aspects of CCF.
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is internationally recognised and consists of four sections; skills, volunteering, physical and expedition. The award was introduced in 1956 to promote young people to build skills, encouraging initiative, self-reliance and teamwork; all in a non-competitive environment.
We aim for all Cadets to gain their Bronze and Silver Award and prepare them for the completion of the Gold Award.
For each of the four sections, Cadets choose what they will focus on.
Volunteering: Cadets are to give up some of their own time to help others; so far students have worked in charity shops, walked their elderly neighbour's dog, and taken on Student Leadership roles in school.
Physical: Cadets set their own targets for physical activity, this can include taking part in a sports team within the school. This year, Cadets have set themselves challenges in running, swimming, hiking and in the gym.
Skills: This is an opportunity for Cadets to focus on something they want to improve on. It can include cooking, baking, art, and design...anything! A lot of our Cadets choose to focus this category on the Skill at Arms aspect of their CCF education.
Expedition: As part of our CCF syllabus, Cadets continually build on their navigation and fieldcraft skills. This concludes an overnight expedition in the local area for their Bronze Award and somewhere further afield for their Silver Award. Cadets are expected to pack and carry all equipment and are trained in map reading and how to be physically prepared. After being given a start and endpoint, Cadets work in teams to plan their own route. This is a great opportunity to work as a team and push themselves outside of their comfort zones.
“I feel like I’ve really grown in confidence and learned how to be more independent/develop lots of new skills.” Cadet
“Cadets, for me, is one of those organisations that makes you feel like you belong; you become part of a mini family which helps you to develop friendships you may not have had the chance to form. The experiences offered are incredible, such as completing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and taking part in the regular camping opportunities. I was proud to wear the uniform, and my confidence, knowledge and discipline improved.
I truly enjoyed my Cadet experience and would recommend anyone trying it.” Year 11 Cadet
“I feel that my daughter has really matured and has more of a ‘can do attitude’ approach to life. She was delighted to receive her ‘most improved cadet’ award which has spurred her on!.” Parent
“My son loves attending cadets I think it has given him chance to make new friends. It gives him opportunities to learn new skills and to push himself I think it’s given him confidence. I felt so proud of him at the Remembrance Day parade.” Parent
