Charter Academy in Portsmouth has today celebrated the official launch of its new Combined Cadet Force contingent. The Royal Navy-led CCF, which was set up this year, now has 15 members – and the launch was attended by parents, teachers, and Royal Navy representatives including Commodore Robert Fancy, the Navy’s Commander of Core Training
The group, which is one of the new Combined Cadet Force contingents set up as part of the Cadet Expansion Programme, gives pupils the opportunity to show leadership qualities in activities such as kayaking, sailing and power-boating, as well as earning recognised qualifications in numerous activities including first aid, life-saving and diving.
Commodore Fancy said, “Today’s opening is part of a UK-wide plan to expand the CCF footprint in the UK. Pupils at Charter Academy now have the opportunity to take part in great life experiences which can form an important part of their personal development."
The parade was launched by an impressive performance from the Royal Marines Corps of Drums, followed by the formal inspection. Cadets also had chance to show off their new skills, with a variety of leadership exercises, and a demonstration of their nautical training.
The Cadet Expansion Programme was launched in June 2012 by the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister with the aim to deliver 100 new cadet units in English state-funded schools. This has since been extended and the Government has now committed to grow the total number of cadet units in schools across the UK to 500, by 2020.