CCF Events & Activities

CCF March Update

Parade Night – 23.03.2026

The Kier engagement Team visited Ash Manor Cadets to deliver an interactive workshop focused on developing teamwork and problem-solving skills through a series of command tasks. These activities challenged the cadets to work together to solve puzzles and complete construction-based challenges, encouraging communication, leadership and creative thinking under pressure. Throughout the session, cadets were fully engaged, showing great enthusiasm as they collaborated with their peers, and it was clear from their energy and feedback that they thoroughly enjoyed the experience while picking up some genuinely useful skills along the way.

Royal Navy DRIU - 24.03.2026

The Royal Navy cadets travelled to HMS Phoenix, Portsmouth, where they took part in hands-on training focused on firefighting aboard naval vessels. Throughout the morning, they were introduced to the different types of fires that can occur at sea and practised a variety of methods to tackle them safely and effectively, gaining a real appreciation for the challenges faced onboard ship.

Following lunch, the focus shifted to damage control, with cadets learning how to respond if a vessel’s hull is breached and begins taking on water. They then put these skills into action aboard the DRIU Hazard (Damage Repair Instruction Unit), working together in a realistic simulator environment to stem the rising water levels. Using teamwork, quick thinking and their newly developed skills, the cadets successfully managed the scenario, making for an engaging and memorable day of practical learning.

Ex. Sore Feet – 27/28.03.2026

Cadets from both the Navy and Army sections stayed on after the end of term to take part in Ex. Sore Feet, a navigation and expedition training weekend. They began by setting up a campsite on the school grounds, taking responsibility for cooking their own meals and preparing their kit and route for the following day. For many, this was their first experience carrying a loaded bergen over distance, offering a realistic insight into what the Duke of Edinburgh's Award expedition entails for those considering signing up.

The following day saw the cadets put their planning into action as they navigated a route along the Blackwater Valley Path towards Camberley. Despite a few minor navigational errors and the inevitable blisters that come with the territory, all cadets successfully completed the walk. The weekend proved to be both a challenging and rewarding experience, building resilience, teamwork and confidence in a practical outdoor setting.

National Spring Music Camp, Otterburn – 04/12.04.2026

Cadets from Ash Manor School CCF recently had the opportunity to attend the National Spring Music Camp held at Otterburn Training Camp, near Newcastle. Sgt Sisson and four members of the Corps of Drums (CoD) took part in their first national-level camp, joining over 400 cadets and 150 Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) from across all four nations of the UK.

Set in a remote training area known for its unpredictable weather, the camp certainly lived up to its reputation. Cadets experienced everything from snow underfoot to bright sunshine within the same day, adding an extra layer of challenge to an already intensive week of training.

From the very first day, the four CoD cadets were placed into the 2-star cadre, where they were introduced to new musical pieces, developed their sight-reading abilities, and took on the demanding task of marching in formation while playing. Learning to move as a coordinated group of five, in step and in time, proved to be a significant challenge, but one that they rose to with determination and resilience.

Meanwhile, Sgt Sisson was assigned to the 1-star cadre, where he continued to develop his own musical ability while also supporting the training of approximately 50 cadets in basic music skills. Alongside this, he played a key role in maintaining rhythm within the group on the bass drum, balancing both leadership and performance responsibilities throughout the week.

By the end of the camp, the hard work of all involved was clear. The cadets successfully performed alongside their respective cadres during the final parade, demonstrating the skills they had developed over the course of the week. All four CoD cadets achieved their 2-star qualification, marking a significant milestone in their musical and cadet progression.

A special mention goes to Lance Corporal Peters, who was recognised as the “Most Improved Cadet” within the cadre — a well-deserved achievement reflecting both effort and commitment throughout the week.