A residential adventure training course and getting up close to F35 Lightning II Aircraft at RAF Marham are just two of the exciting opportunities that Cadets from The Hereford Academy Combined Cadet Force (THA CCF) have recently enjoyed.

Launched in September 2024, the Academy’s newly formed Royal Navy section currently has 30 eager Cadets supported by five staff members.

Tackling high rope and obstacle courses, archery, pioneering, camping and a STEM day at RAF Marham with 617 Squadron have also been in their activity highlights.

Rounding off 2024 on a high point, the CCF held their Pass-out parade with HM Lord-Lieutenant of Herefordshire, Mr Edward Harley CBE, as the Inspecting Officer. Showcasing their drill display they treated Senior Officers from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Air Force, VIPs, family and friends, to a taste of their skills.

Cadets, staff and visiting officers are sitting for a formal group photo in a sports hall, at their official pass-out parade

Bringing benefits to students and the wider Academy community

Cadets from The Hereford Academy CCF are wearing rope safety harnesses and helmets ready to take part in high ropes courses

As well as providing a wealth of extra-curricular skills and activities, the Academy has already seen a number of benefits since the launch of their CCF.

In under six months the Cadet ethos is already noticeable in the school. Staff, governors, parents and carers have all commented on a positive change in the student body and the pride and discipline that has been instilled in the Cadets. This is not only evident during Cadet events, but it is also noticeable in their conduct around the school.

Flight Lieutenant Will Taylor, Assistant Headteacher & Contingent Commander at THA CCF said: “We are absolutely thrilled that we have been able to open a Combined Cadet Force at THA. The CCF is already embedded within the school community and the positive impact on the student body is already evident. The opportunities that our Cadets have been lucky enough to experience are once-in-a-lifetime and the opportunities afforded to them are incredible”.

The CCF has also created an additional sense of community within the Cadets of Year 8.

Cadet B Pugh added: “I have loved doing CCF with all the trips and staying with friends. My favourite trip so far was our adventure training camp with lots of activities, including doing high ropes. Being in the CCF has taught me about teamwork and discipline which has helped me to improve my behaviour in school. I am enjoying school more than ever this year”.

Looking forward to the future

The Cadets are working together as a team to climb the high ropes obstacle courses, watching on as fellow cadets are on the course

With their first term under their belt, their Cadets and staff are looking forward to taking part in more unique events and opportunities in 2025. Later this year they will be visiting RAF Shawbury’s Tri-Service Helicopter School, and visiting the Damage Repair Instruction Unit at HMS Excellent where they will taking part in simulated firefighting exercises.

The Hereford Academy CCF’s Royal Navy section will be expanding their intake later this year to welcome another 30 new Cadets to join.

There are CCF contingents in over 500 secondary schools across the UK, offering young people a broad range of challenging, adventurous and educational activities. Find out more about the Combined Cadet Force and Cadet Expansion Programme.

 

 

Published 07/02/25