Alleyn's Blog: Discovering the Heart of the CCF

In my time at Alleyn’s, I have had the opportunity to delve into the heart of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF); placing myself at the centre of a major thread of co-curricular life and joining numerous field trips and Thursday afternoon parades. I have observed cadets as they have developed new skills and overcome challenges, and thanks to our CCF voyages together through rain, wind and mud, the woods, the sea and the mountains, I have come away with valuable life outtakes and an unwavering pride for our contingent.  

The CCF programme provides cadets from Year 9 through to 13 hands-on learning and realistic scenarios both in the field and during Thursday afternoon lessons. It places cadets into unique outdoor experiences demonstrating the depth of learning that can happen outside of the classroom. We take cadets out of the school and the city, sometimes for an entire week or more, and have the privilege to witness their Aha! Eureka! moments as they apply themselves out in the world. In the CCF, cadets gain competence and confidence by doing. 

There is no feeling like seeing a cadet’s face light up because they have managed to successfully use their newly found navigation skills to pinpoint their location on a paper map, in the middle of nowhere, without electronic assistance.  Witnessing the moment a Year 9 cadet lets off their first round of a real weapon system, as they practice contact drills in the Kent countryside, is equally unforgettable. You feel the magnitude of these instances, where their sense of achievement hangs in the air like an electrifying current. 

These seemingly small moments are a reminder of the importance of the ‘little’ things. While milestones like passing exams, landing a role in a school production or getting that first job are significant in a young person's life, there is a special magic to be discovered in the countless ‘small’ experiences they encounter.  

The everyday moments are where you see swathes of CCF values like courage, discipline and respect playing out, because in the CCF, those small, defining moments are constant. They are evident among the cadets when they are checking in with each other over a shared meal, when they straighten their battle buddy’s beret, help their comrade who has fallen in the mud, and when they have the bravery to admit they are homesick on an overnight trip away from home. These micro-experiences compound over time, influencing a young person's worldview, their connections with others and ultimately their character. 

I have observed a deeply  inclusive and supportive culture within our contingent. Our cadets meet each other where they are and are happy to collaborate and get stuck into tasks, even when they are not glamorous. They enjoy sharing the limelight and want to see each other succeed. Through countless conversations around a Rat Pack meal, in the minibus on the way to Kent, or over the dining table at a week-long sailing trip I have seen (and heard) the depth of character that these kids possess.  

Every single cadet brings something unique and valuable to the table. The reserved, quiet cadet often makes for a great observer, quietly absorbing information that other cadets may miss. The neuro diverse cadet can offer a different perspective and unique approaches to challenges. The enthusiastic cadet often motivates the group to move with pace and vigor. The self-conscious cadet often proves to be a supportive comrade, taking the time to check in on those around them. In their own distinctive way, each cadet reminds us of the strength in our differences, and underscores the importance of empathy, understanding and patience, and of course, the celebration of youth.  

The CCF at Alleyn's is more than just an extra curricular activity; it is a journey of personal growth and character development (and not just for the cadets). These kids carry an infectious amount of spirit. They are inspiring, interesting, quirky and inquisitive, and their energy is influential. It is fulfilling to see how each young person can shine, given the right platform, moment or opportunity. Our youth are smart, talented and deserving of every chance that life serves up.  

I’ll leave you with the following Māori Whakataukī (proverb);  

He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata! He tangata! He tangata! What is the most important thing in the world? Tis people! Tis people! Tis people!  

We are the protectors and nurturers of our next generation, and working in education and having the opportunity to shape young and impressionable minds really is such an honour. 

Miss Farrell, Alleyn's CCF Instructor and Marketing Officer.