CCF Cadets: Miki – Representing the Younger Ranks

Miki in Year 9 is in his first year of CCF and brings with him that sprightly cadet energy that you want to bottle up and keep. It’s a special mix of equal parts fresh perspective, zest, and friendly disposition.  

In his first few months as a cadet, Miki attended the Navy Field Day trip to Shadwell Basin and the Peak District Adventure Training, where he got outside and enjoyed some fun physical skills that aren't so accessible when you live in the city! At both exercises, cadets participated in water-based activities including raft building and canoeing which is a great experience for pupils, where they can work on: ‘planning, teamwork, self-belief, leadership, communication, logic, delegation and efficiency’ - learnings taken straight from the mouth of the cadets themselves during the February Adventure Training.   

The CCF is a family affair for Miki. His sister, Kalina, encouraged him to join, relaying her positive experiences so far. Wisely following his sister’s recommendation, Miki joined and finds that he really enjoys the military aspect of the training. It is nice to see the pair of them on parade or exercise together, learning and progressing their skills shoulder to shoulder. As it turns out, Miki and Kalina’s great grandfather was in the military, so in many ways the siblings are paying homage to their heritage – making their shared experiences that little bit extra special. 

Outside of the CCF, Miki plays a little hockey and football, but maintains CCF as his main co-curricular activity because it comes with responsibility and dedication, but also because he finds it fun.  

Since joining the CCF, he has become more confident and a lot more responsible for his personal items (cue: Miki’s family sighing in relief). These seemingly simple learnings are just the kinds of impacts we want involvement in the CCF to have on pupils. Positive influences and learnings that can be carried into life outside of the CCF and even life outside of school.  

While Miki may have been influenced by his sister to join, he’s an advocate for being involved in the CCF, even without the social motivation, stating:

‘Join. Even if you're not doing it with your friends. Even if your friends don't want to do it. It’s a very fun experience and you get to meet some very nice people’. 

Keep up the great work, champion!