It was a busy weekend away for the cadets from Merchant Taylors CCF (RAF). From weapons training lessons to adventure training and a nighttime exercise, it was action packed from start to finish!
Squadron Leader Dipple gives us an insight into what the cadets have been up to on a residential to Inskip, Wales:
“Back in October, year 9 students from Merchant Taylors CCF (RAF) went off on an autumnal Friday evening to Inskip, Wales. From command tasks and air rifle shooting to low ropes, field cooking, drill, Part 1 training and first aid, our cadets tackled it all with enthusiasm and teamwork.
After arriving, the cadets began with an important lesson on weapon training and safety skills ahead of visiting the rifle range later in the weekend. The next morning, after a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast, the cadets participated in drill exercises before going on to low rope activities for some adventure training. Saturday afternoon saw the cadets take part in their Emergency First Aid training, which contributed towards their blue competency badge. First aid is an important part of our syllabus, and it was great to see the cadets getting involved and working so hard towards their next badge!
Once we’d had a delicious dinner, it was time for our exciting nighttime exercise. Here, cadets had to recover various items in the dark. Our cadets had a great time – it was a thrilling exercise followed by a well-deserved hot chocolate (complete with squirty cream and marshmallows) afterwards so the cadets could warm up and wind down.
Sunday came and it was time for more focussed sessions in fieldcraft, badges of rank and Principles of Flight training. After the cadets had cleaned their accommodation, we all set off for home – tired but happy! It was a fun, engaging, challenging and unforgettable weekend.
There were so many highlights from this weekend.
The cadets thoroughly enjoyed every element of their training – some were delighted by their fantastic grouping during the live shooting on the air rifle ranges; others were pleased by how well they led their group during the command task (where the teams were assessed based on their teamwork and leadership skills and qualities). Some cadets loved the nighttime exercise (and the hot chocolate) and the chance to have quality time with their peers, chatting and bonding together without a device in sight!
The weather was extremely cold, but the sight of the cadets sat around, hugging a cup of hot chocolate, chatting and having fun together is something that makes being a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer (CFAV) so incredibly special. So, when we sit back and think about why we do this – this is one of the many reasons why.”
