CCF and Life Skills Field Weekend
Nick Coram-Wright, Deputy Head Co-curricular, writes:
The Army Section headed to Bramley Training Area for a rather wet field weekend including some fieldcraft, bushcraft, and the basics of how to sleep and cook in the field. Luckily an in-depth lesson on harbour areas (camps) and bashas (sleeping systems) equipped the cadets to see out the heavy overnight rainfall. Continued rainfall throughout Monday resulted in a reduction of activities but cadets still managed to learn more bushcraft skills including safe knifework and basic survival skills.
The Navy returned to the wilds of the New Forest this field weekend for challenges in the shape of mountain biking, climbing, abseiling, orienteering then, after dark, fire-lighting and the roasting of marshmallows. Before returning on Monday, some cadets also had time to visit the deer sanctuary at Bolderwood.
Our RAF cadets braved the elements with remarkable resilience and enthusiasm. Despite heavy downpours, they embraced the challenges, starting on Sunday with an adventurous orienteering session at Shotover on Sunday. Congratulations to Gibson A Flight who won the competition. From here the Section moved over to Youlbury Scout Camp in Boars Hill. The rain, however, failed to dampen spirits. With determination and teamwork, our cadets completed every activity, including Capture the Flag, various leadership tasks, the Aerial Trek and the Leap of Faith. They carried that same positive energy as they returned to school. Their commitment to overcoming obstacles reflects the core values of strength and perseverance that define our unit.
The Life Skills group bonded over team building exercises including the spider’s web and blindfold obstacle course on Sunday at Hill End Outdoor Activity Centre. We finished the day by learning to use a fire steel and then toasting marshmallows over a camp fire. Monday took us to Blenheim Palace, home of the Duke of Marlborough, where we saw modern art and priceless treasures in the stunning state rooms. At the workshop which followed we were challenged to complete a number of puzzles about all things aristocratic. Our challenging journey there has inspired some to learn to read a bus timetable!