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CCF

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is an organisation sponsored by the British Armed Forces. It aims to promote teamwork, leadership, service and self-reliance through military and adventure training. Culford offers the CCF as an afternoon activity each week and pupils from Year 9 up may choose it as an option; no previous experience is necessary and it is not compulsory.

The activity includes military training in drill, fieldcraft, navigation, first aid and shooting and is conducted by members of the British Army’s Cadet Training Team and specially trained Cadet NCOs (Non-Commissioned Officers) drawn from within the School. NCOs have to successfully complete a challenging training course where their leadership skills are developed.

Adventure training comprises everything from sailing and canoeing to climbing and abseiling. The CCF takes full advantage of the grounds and facilities available at Culford as well as visiting more rugged areas of the country. Last year Culford completed the Three Peaks Challenge, climbing the highest mountains in Scotland (Ben Nevis), England (Scafell Pike) and Wales (Snowdon) on consecutive days, thereby raising over £7,000 for Help for Heroes.

Every summer there is a week long annual camp at a military establishment or training area somewhere in the UK. There are also numerous residential courses available such as the Cadet Leadership Course and the Senior Cadet Instructors’ Course. These courses are a chance to develop your potential as a communicator, instructor and leader whilst mixing with cadets from all over the country. There are also courses available in everything from rock climbing and skiing to seamanship and powerboat maintenance.

Each year Culford's CCF undergoes a formal inspection; in 2011 it was undertaken by General the Lord Dannatt. The inspection is followed by a formal mess dinner in Culford Hall, hosted by Culford's NCOs.

In short, CCF offers a great opportunity to develop a wide range of skills that will set you apart from the crowd, and, above all, those of teamwork and leadership.