The Combined Cadet Force Association awarded a Group Activity Grant to the CCF contingent at Kettering Buccleuch Academy (KBA) together with Small Grants for 8 individual cadets to have a chance to take part in the contingent’s battlefield study tour of Ypres Salient and Somme battlefields. Part of the funding for these grants was made possible thanks to the kind donation of £131 from the family of the late Simon Stone, who was the RAF Section Commander within the Priory Academy CCF Contingent in Lincoln.
The four-day tour was planned with the main objective to connect the KBA cadets with their past through remembering the sacrifice of our forebears whilst broaden their horizons through experiencing the language, culture, and food of other countries. Whilst visiting historical sites, museums and cemeteries, an experienced tour guide helped the cadets connect with the experiences of soldiers and nurses on the Western front during World War One. They also attended the Menin Gate ceremony and remembrance event which gave the cadets an opportunity to pay respect to those who fought in the war.
A few cadets reflected on their experience from the trip:
“I wanted to go because I am interested in history and also wanted to visit Belgium. I was able to see graves from both my English and German family names which was very interesting and emotional. I really enjoyed the trip as I was able to go with friends.” Cadet Karlie Fuhr
“Thank you for the grant. I applied for this grant because I needed help raising the money. I really wanted to see the museums with the tanks, guns and aircraft because I have read lots of books but never seen the real weapons. I enjoyed being away with friends and the food was great. I will remember the visit and the graves for a long time.” Cadet Robin Rolfe
“I wanted to go on this trip to see the Western Front trenches. I was shocked by the numbers of graves and am glad I was not there. The trench museum was the best bit as we went down in the trench. It was just like history. We really enjoyed the food and chocolate.” Cadet Indigo Ehwueme
Lastly, the Contingent Commander at KBA, Major JonMichael Teare, stated, “We would like to thank the CCFA for their generous support of the Battlefield Study trip which enabled 39 students from a deprived ward to visit The Western Front. Without the financial support, access to this cultural and historical activity would have been impossible for some of our cadets.
The trip exposed students to different countries and food in Europe. Developed their resilience and teamwork in a different setting to their normal cadet activities and supported their academic studies in History and English Literature.
All the participants really benefitted from the time reflecting on the sacrifice of their forebears and the importance of defending British values.
The individual cadets, who receive Free School Meals or other forms of support, were able to attend a trip which has benefitted them socially and as part of their personal development.”
