The annual CCF Summer Camp remains a firm favourite among cadets, and this year proved to be no exception. Over the course of three weeks, cadets from across the South East gathered at Longmoor Camp to take part in a dynamic and physically demanding programme designed to push their limits and broaden their skills.
Representing a diverse range of schools and colleges—including St Lawrence College, Christ’s Hospital, The Brakenhale School, and Portsmouth Community College—cadets had the unique opportunity to meet and bond with like-minded peers from across the region.
Activities were structured to give all cadets full exposure to the experience, with specific days allocated for each event. The packed agenda included shooting, axe throwing, TIBUA (Training in Built-Up Areas), observation exercises, and adventure training (AT) at Hawley Lake, featuring climbing and paddle boarding.
The axe throwing proved particularly popular, with cadets quickly learning that success required more than brute force. Precision, positioning, and focus were key to landing a clean strike, rather than embedding the axe into the ground. TIBUA offered another standout moment: cadets navigated a purpose-built urban environment that demanded teamwork, communication, and tactical thinking to successfully traverse a simulated hostile zone.
The Brakenhale School Blog captured the spirit of the week perfectly, describing Thursday’s rifle range day as “an unforgettable experience,” which featured clay pigeon shooting, field observation drills, precision rifle shooting for army-standard trained cadets, and even engine repair on a Land Rover under the guidance of serving soldiers.
Despite the rising temperatures during the camp that necessitated brief pauses in the schedule, the event ran smoothly thanks to the unwavering dedication of the Cadet Training Team and the invaluable support of adult volunteers. WO1 Welsh and his team delivered an exceptional programme, leaving cadets eager to see what next year’s camp has in store.
Written by Nick Sermon, Schools’ Cadet Engagement Officer, South East Reserve Forces’ & Cadets’ Association
See all of the photos form the camp here.
The Combined Cadet Force
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.