On Sunday, members of the RAF CCF left school a couple of hours before the sun even thought about peeking above the horizon but it was worth the early start. With beautiful blue skies above Upavon Airfield in Wiltshire, West Buckland RAF CCF took to the air!
With thanks to Volunteer Gliding Squadron (622 VGS) for their understanding of the distance we travelled, they got us flying as quickly as possible and gave each cadet an extra third flight. The cadets really enjoyed the experience and said it was something never to be forgotten.
Even Mrs Smith overcame her flying fear and took a flight with a little (or a lot!) of persuasion from Mr Flynn. A huge thank you to Mr Flynn who kindly drove the cadets there and back.
With near perfect visibility, the views across Salisbury Plain were spectacular and created timeless memories and hopefully inspiration for every cadet.
The CCF starts in Year 9 with an opportunity to try lots of different activities, including orienteering, survival skills, camp cooking and camouflage. From Year 10, cadets undertake a Level 2 Effective Team Management course which is reinforced through practical activities. Year 11 take a Level 2 Leadership and Management course introducing them to the fundamental skills of leadership through various models. This is developed further in the Sixth Form through a Level 3 Leadership and Management course.
These courses are integrated practically through the activities in the CCF, through modules such as first aid with its casualty simulation, expedition training, and fieldcraft exercises. This leadership is not limited to the CCF but transferable into all areas of school life, supporting students in their life as prefects, in sports teams or taking the Duke of Edinburgh award.