Joint Combined Cadet Force with Eton and Holyport College

Eton College's Combined Cadet Force (CCF) (which was founded in 1860) is now run as a joint CCF with Holyport College. CCF is entirely voluntary and is offered to Years 11-13. Training is run as far as possible by the students themselves, with most instruction delivered by these in Years 12-13.

CCF takes place once a week and we also take the cadets away from school on three training / exercise weekends each year, known as Scheme Weekends.  Longer camps, which are scheduled for the start of the summer holidays, include a UK-based camp and an overseas camp for more senior cadets.  Activities on camp include a military exercise phase, shooting, paintballing, assault courses, mountain biking, coasteering and SCUBA diving.

Aims

For a cadet, Year 11 is all about learning and mastering new skills, and forming team bonds. In Year 12 the cadets are trained in how to teach what they have learned and begin developing their leadership skills, while the Year 13 cadets draw on all their experience to lead, plan and deliver training.

Background

The Eton Volunteer Corps was originally founded in 1860 as a response to a national call to arms to form volunteer companies to defend the country against a perceived threat from the French. It has enjoyed a proud tradition of volunteering and service ever since.

Renamed the Eton College Combined Cadet Force (CCF) in the 1960s, the CCF continues to this day with both an Army and a Royal Air Force Section.

Impact

"I thoroughly enjoy the CCF and look forward to it every week and I particularly love the Schemes. You gain really valuable skills and have a lot of fun both on your own and with others in three years in the CCF."

Pupil Involvement

Years 11-13.

Frequency

Weekly sessions as well as trips.