Combined Cadet Force (CCF)

The Army Section is the largest Section within the Habs CCF. The Section prides its self on delivering leadership skills. The cadets in Upper Sixth have nearly complete ownership of some exercises and training evolutions, instructing the younger cadets is expected and high standards are demanded. The Section spreads its time between military skills such as camouflage and concealment, navigation, weapon drills and Methods of Instruction. The rest of the time is spent carrying out Adventurous Training. The on-site obstacle course is a favourite activity for all Sections, although the Army Section spends the most time here. Year 10 cadets focus on basic skills before progressing on in Year 11 to military skills and leadership; this syllabus develops the qualities that allow the cadet to move up the rank structure from Private to perhaps Regimental Sergeants Major or Under Officer.

The Habs RN CCF Section is one of the largest and most successful RN CCF sections in the UK. The emphasis here is on getting afloat; we have access to an unrivalled range of dinghies at Aldenham Sailing Club including six Lasers, 20 Toppers, two Picos and two Wayfarers. Two of the officers are RYA Senior Instructors and all Officers are RYA Powerboat qualified. All cadets joining the section are expected to complete an RYA Level 2 training course during the summer break between Year 9 and Year 10; indeed we run our own four day course each year (for which there is a modest charge).

Field Days often include adventurous sailing activities such as a three day expedition to Rockley Point, including a final day “staff shoot-out” across Poole Harbour! This particular trip offers cadets the experience of sailing in coastal waters, tackling tides and pitting themselves against the ever-present sea breezes! Aside from sailing the RN CCF section emphasises activities such as practical leadership skills development, plenty of drill, the winter lecture series, Duke of Edinburgh training, survival training and our famous tug-of-war challenges.

The RAF Section focuses on getting the cadets into the air and teaching them about the principles of flight and the complexities air operations. The flight simulators hone hand eye co-ordination as well as how to multi-task and prioritise under pressure. This core syllabus is augmented by practical leadership, followership and team building training.

These skills are also part and parcel of being in the RAF Section and are tested regularly during the Friday parades. The Section also carries out survival training and has the same opportunity to complete the Duke of Edinburgh Award. The highlight of each year is the opportunity to travel to an operational RAF base and take a flight in a ‘tutor’ aircraft with the chance of taking control while the other members observe the progress from the flight control tower.