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Why the Combined Cadet force?
Why the Combined Cadet force?
The Combined Cadet Force is a specifically tailored Cadet programme designed for schools. The CCF has been successfully run in schools for many years, typically independent schools, and has helped thousands of young people develop key life skills such as confidence, self discipline and resourcefulness.
Cadet units in schools are supported financially by the Ministry of Defence, but are not part of the Armed Forces. The cadet forces follow some of the customs and traditions of their parent Service, such as using the same rank structure, and taking part in some military-themed training, but the organisations are separate. There is no commitment to military service of any kind, for the cadets or adults involved.
The focus of the CCF is to provide active and adventurous training, to give young people opportunities for personal development outside of the classroom.
We have applied to become our own independent CCF Unit as we recognise the cadet model as a real leader in the character education and personal development of young people. Being able to provide access to cadet opportunities on our own doorsteps removes many of the barriers that pupils face should they wish to participate.
What Happens Next?
What Happens Next?
Whilst we are confident we will have enough demand, we must ensure there is enough pupil interest and parental support & commitment to proceed. If we don't have the interest then it doesn't happen, unfortunately.
We have a target of recruiting 120 Walkden High over a 5 year period. To allow us manage and plan for growth sensibly we are limiting recruits numbers to the following intake each year.
2018/19 - 30 Cadet Total
2019/20 - 50 Cadet Total
2020/21 - 70 Cadet Total
2021/22 - 90 Cadet Total
2022/2023 - 120 Cadet Total
It is essential that if you are interested in your child becoming a Walkden High Army Cadet that you register early. This allows us to confirm intent and proceed with the project.
Those who are interested will be invited to a parent information evening in Autumn 2018
When will Cadets StART?
When will Cadets StART?
There is a lot of training and planning that must occur before we are ready to launch. The school staff that apply to become cadet leaders must undertake intensive cadet leader training. The school must also recruit a Staff School Instructor; this is an ex-army official who will serve as the link between the school and the Ministry of Defence. We also become affiliated with an regional army battalion and then we have some structural projects that will happen. It's a lot of work, but we have a commitment with the Mod & DofE to ensure it is operating by April 1st 2019 and we will honour this.
What will it cost?
What will it cost?
This is one of real factors in our decision to establish our own Cadet Detachment. Many of the costs of running cadet units are met by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). This presents an opportunity for our pupils to access high quality extra-curricular activity and adventure training at very affordable cost. Cadets "subs", although not finalised will likely be £130 per year, to be paid monthly - this works out at, approximately £3 per week. The MoD provides Cadets uniforms, but boots must be independently purchased. The school also has access to funding to cover the costs for pupils in receipt of free school meals to enable equal access to the opportunities.
Common Misconceptions
Common Misconceptions
Everyone has different ideas about the benefits of having a CCF unit in school. Parents and guardians, especially those with children who are new to the school, may have preconceptions that aren’t completely accurate. So here are a few common concerns.
- “Joining the CCF is the same as joining the military” Cadet units in schools are supported financially by the Ministry of Defence, but are not part of the Armed Forces. The cadet forces follow some of the customs of their parent service, such as rank structure, but the organisations are different
- “Cadets are obliged to do time in the Armed Forces when they’re older” Not at all. The CCF is simply a voluntary youth organisation.
- “It’s risky” Where safeguarding is concerned, CCF adults have to pass a Disclosure and Barring Service, Access Northern Ireland or Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scotland check before they start working with cadets. In terms of the activities, some do have an element of risk, but contingent commanders must ensure that they take place within policy parameters set by the Ministry of Defence and that the risks are kept as low as possible. Overall responsibility for managing risk lies with the headteacher.
- “It’s expensive” Some items of uniform do need to be purchased privately by the school or by cadets. In instances of hardship, CCF units can apply for a small grant to help individual cadets (find out more at www.combinedcadetforce.org.uk/ccfa). When cadets attend field days or camps, there is a small charge for certain activities and daily messing (meals). If cadets receive free school meals they do not need to pay for meals
- “It will just teach them to follow orders blindly” Some activities such as drill involve paying close attention to orders. But this is because when cadets are in the field and someone calls ‘stop’, they do so instantly. Many activities develop leadership skills. Strong leaders are able to challenge accepted ways of doing things, come up with solutions, think creatively when things go wrong and persuade others to follow their lead.
Further Information regarding the Combined Cadet Force can be found HERE
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