Challenging battle for cadets

The gruelling three-hour package of activities tested the junior cadets’ ability to use their initiative, communicate and make decisions under pressure.

The cadets were tasked with the patrol and protection of a safe haven where refugees were sheltering from recent fighting. An unexpected incursion by older cadets playing the role of enemy forces was repulsed using blank ammunition, pyrotechnics and military tactics that cadets have been learning this year.

The event was the final exercise for boys and girls participating in the School’s Junior Leadership Programme. Offered to students in Year 9 (LE), the scheme is designed to develop self-confidence, initiative and leadership through participation in a series of military and adventure training activities.

The exercise made extensive use of the school’s woods and meadow land on its 1,200 acre site just outside of Horsham.

Lieutenant Alistair Goddard, CCF Adjutant, commented: “It is crucially important for young people to pick up skills such as self-reliance, leadership and quick decision-making.

“These are very difficult to teach in a classroom, so programmes such as the cadet force are all-important for developing these skills at an early age.

“I am extremely proud of the young cadets who were able to complete such a challenging exercise to a high standard, and grateful to the senior cadets who gave up their free time to help run the event.”

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is available to students in Year 10 (UF) and above at Christ’s Hospital. Nearly 200 cadets are members of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force sections.

It is one of a wide range of co-curricular activities provided for students at the Horsham-based school.

Report and picture contributed by Christ’s Hospital.