Women’s History Month is observed every March to honour the significant impact that women have had on history and society. Throughout this month, we will be sharing stories from CCF trailblazers, to showcase their impact and celebrate how they are empowering the next generation of women and girls.
Recognising Leadership and Excellence
We recently spoke to Major Rosie Caulfield, Contingent Commander CCF (Army), Eton College to find out about her own personal achievements, celebrate her leadership and expertise, and to learn more about how she is pioneering the way for future female Contingent Commanders.
How long have you been a part of the CCF for?
I’ve worked within the CCF for the past 15 years. But I have been at Eton College for nearly three years, where as well as working with the CCF, I specialise in outdoor education.
What has been a highlight of your career so far?
I am the first ever female Contingent Commander in Eton College CCF’s 166-year-old history!
Congratulations! That is an incredible achievement. As Eton’s first ever Contingent Commander, what would you say is the biggest challenge facing women in the workplace today?
Personally, I would say juggling home life and families whilst still having a career (and often without a ‘village’ around you) is the biggest challenge.
What inspired you to first volunteer for the CCF?
I always wanted to join the military, and I come from a military family, but injuries got in my way. And so, I worked abroad for several years where I worked skiing, and I also worked on ships; I ran Kitesurfing and Surf centres abroad too. I then got a call from my old school, and I was asked to join their Outdoor Education team to help the school expand their activities offering. My job involved running their CCF and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Outdoor Education programme, which meant I got to do all my hobbies as a job.
What are your hopes for any future female Cadet Force Adult Volunteers?
I would hope that there are more females in every school’s CCF, and in more leading roles too - whether that is as Head of Section or Contingent Commander.
And what would you say to any females reading this who are considering volunteering for the CCF?
I would say ‘step up and get involved!’ It will give you the confidence in all walks of life and you get the opportunity to be a positive role model. They will remember what they were taught and the experiences they had for the rest of their lives and to be a part of that is a real honour.
As it is Women’s History Month, we’d like to ask what the event means to you?
For me, it is to celebrate what incredible things women have achieved - recognising trailblazers and using the event as a platform to inspire future generations.
What positive progress have you seen for women in your workplace/volunteering space?
Eton have recruited more females over the last few years, which is fantastic to see. This means the boys have an opportunity to see strong, smart females leading in a highly competitive school.
Finally, if you could have lunch with any woman in history, who would it be and what would you want to talk about?
It would have to be Queen Elizabeth II - I would ask her absolutely everything!
Thank you so much, Rosie and congratulations on all of your achievements so far.
If you are inspired by Rosie’s story and would like to become a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, please click here to find out more information.