The HQSE CTT CCF Summer Camp 2026 was held at Lydd Camp from 20 June to 10 July 2026 and marked a significant milestone as the first jointly delivered summer camp between HQ Southeast (HQSE) Cadet Training Team (CTT) and London District (LONDIST) CTT. The collaboration proved highly successful and provided an extensive and rewarding training experience for cadets and adult volunteers alike.
The camp welcomed attendance from 56 Combined Cadet Force (CCF) units, including contingents from both Joint Military Command (JMC) LONDIST and the HQSE. Across the three-week rotation, approximately 1,640 cadets attended, with 1,009 CFAVs from the HQSE region participating in the camp.
To maximise training opportunities whilst working within the limitations of available camp resources, units arrived on Sunday evenings and departed on Friday evenings. A comprehensive four-day training package was delivered each week, culminating in a competition day on Friday prior to departure. Throughout the camp, cadets experienced military life both in camp and in the field, with most spending at least one or two nights under field conditions.
A key highlight of the camp was the two-day Fieldcraft package conducted at Rype Village and the Dibgate Training Area. Cadets participated in a range of challenging and engaging activities, including STIBUA operations, weapons, engagement stands, shotgun training, paintballing, and survival skills training. These activities enabled cadets to develop teamwork, leadership, problem-solving skills, and resilience in realistic training environments.
During Weeks 1 and 2, cadets were provided with opportunities to participate in live shooting on the range. Unfortunately, range availability was lost during Week 3, requiring the programme to be adapted. To ensure training value remained high, a full package of alternative activities was delivered, including an Escape Room challenge, DCCT activities, STEM kit exercises, Laser Weapon systems, First Aid training, and various Command and Task stands.
Adventure Training was another major success of the camp. Delivered at Serial 39, cadets enjoyed a wide range of adventurous and educational activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, improvised raft building, archery, mountain biking, and the climbing tower. These activities provided excellent opportunities for personal development, confidence building, teamwork, and leadership.
The success of the camp was made possible through the dedicated efforts of staff from both HQSE CTT and LONDIST CTT, whose cooperation and professionalism ensured the smooth delivery of a demanding programme. The joint approach allowed for the sharing of resources, expertise, and best practice, significantly enhancing the overall camp experience.
Overall, the CCF Summer Camp 2026 at Lydd Camp was an excellent achievement. As the first camp jointly delivered by LONDIST CTT and HQSE CTT, it successfully provided cadets with a varied, challenging, and enjoyable programme that combined military training, fieldcraft, adventurous activities, and competition. The overwhelmingly positive feedback received from cadets and staff alike demonstrated the value of the joint venture and established a strong foundation for future collaborative camps.
Team Commander Wainscott
CCF units in schools give young people the life skills and self-confidence to take charge of their lives so they can reach their full potential at school and beyond, including in employment. Each CCF is formed of sections from one or more of the Royal Navy/Royal Marines, Army or the Royal Air Force.