Page 168 - Bugle Autumn 2014

Wrekin College CCF
September saw the arrival of the next wave of new recruits to the contingent. Less than a week after collecting their uniforms, they found themselves at Swynnerton Training Camp for an introductory day with the focus on learning new skills. Unusually, the RAF Section joined in the day as flying was not yet an option. “Exercise Warlock” rapidly followed this, giving some of them a chance to spend the night out on the Nesscliff Training Area. Two further successful field days, a range day at RAF Shawbury and two night exercises meant that they had
a very busy year. I was delighted that 60 members of the contingent represented
the school at this year’s Remembrance Day Parade in Wellington and there were many favourable comments about their behaviour and turn out.
The RAF’s powered aircraft fleet, “the Tutors” came back into service for the second and third Field days of the year and for some cadets it was their first opportunity to experience the excitement of taking control over the West Midlands. Developing self–confidence and communication on the low ropes course at RAF Cosford was a real hit and another new activity for this year.
Summer Camp was again a highlight
of the Army Section’s year, culminating in a 36 hour exercise: “Cliffhanger” in which cadets had to breach minefields and cross a chasm with all their equipment.
Over 60 cadets gained Duke of Edinburgh Awards this year, a bumper crop, which builds upon the successes of recent years. Five of our Lower Sixth cadets are part way through their BTEC in Public Services and Cdt Cpl Izaac Lovatt passed the very demanding Cadet Battle Camp at Sennybridge. 30% of candidates either fail or drop out of this course.
It is all too easy to look at the figures of courses successfully attended or proficiency syllabi completed, but the real point of the cadet experience is immeasurable. The expressions in the young peoples’ faces and comments made below are testament to this:
“I feel that the CCF has built me as a person in a way that no other activity could.”
“The opportunities offered to us cadets are just amazing!”
“The chance to lead other cadets and the responsibility that goes with it, has given me a self-discipline and determination, which has helped me a great deal in my school- work.”
“The camaraderie between cadets is great and I can’t think of anywhere I’d rather be for a week than in camp!”
“The challenges we are set in the CCF have taught me a lot about myself.”
“The chance to work alongside regulars during training is a real privilege.”
The SSI passing on his wisdom
A brief respite on Summer Camp
LSW Training
All of this would not be possible without the enthusiasm of the cadets and huge effort of the staff. This year Dr Alex May “passed out” of RAF Cranwell and we also welcomed a civilian instructor Mick Baker who had served with 5 LI and holds both
Summer and Winter Mountain Leader Awards, Single Pitch climbing Award and is a first aid instructor.
Major Jeremy Ballard
OC Wrekin College CCF
166 CADETS
THE RIFLES