Leadership, Logistics and the Llyn Peninsula
Before Easter, pupils went away to various locations on Expedition Weekend trips, which ran into the first weekend of the holiday. They spent their evening sleeping under canvas for their Duke of Edinburgh Awards or with the CCF Army, Navy and RAF Sections.
New Qualifications and High Praise for CCF at RAF Cosford
The Section travelled to RAF Cosford for the Spring Field Trip; on the first evening, Cadets received input regarding uniform preparation and expectations. On the Friday, Cadets spent the morning in a STEM session to create logical solutions to given real-world scenarios delivered by senior RAF cyber communication technicians. In the afternoon the section had a tour of the Mechanical Training School by the Warrant Officer, giving exclusive behind-the-scenes access regarding the intricate maintenance of a range of aircraft, including fighter jets such as the famous Tornado. In the evening, Pilot Officer and Head of Physics, Dr Rowlinson concluded the Space Studies programme delivery resulting in all Cadets successfully gaining the new Cadet qualification. On Saturday morning the group were inspected on parade, including drill movements, before concluding the trip with a visit to the Cold War exhibition housed in the Midlands Museum located onsite.
Section lead, Flying Officer Webster said: “The trip was hugely successful with the Cadets engaging in a range of stimulating and career-focused hands-on activities. The Regional Commandant and other staff commended the pupils for their enthusiasm and engagement, they were a credit to both the School and to the CCF as a whole.”
Cadets Demonstrate Leadership and Teamwork on the Isle of Man
This year, the weather was on our side with clear blue skies stretching across the Irish Sea for our annual trip to the Venture Centre. Over the course of Friday and Saturday, Cadets engaged in a variety of adventurous activities that tested their mental and physical limits. From coasteering and gorge walking to high ropes, zip wires, and obstacle courses, the Cadets faced numerous challenges. They also had the chance to try their hand at air rifle shooting, axe throwing, and archery. It was wonderful to see the Army and Navy Sections of the CCF working together so effectively, showcasing their exceptional teamwork and leadership skills.
Hybrid Expedition Sees DofE Participants Tackle Sea and Summit
21 Lower Sixth students travelled up to the heart of Snowdonia, North Wales to undertake their practice Expedition of their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. This was the first hybrid expedition RGS has run, seeing students sea kayak for two days and hiking for a further two days, all the while being self-sufficient throughout.
The weather was glorious for the whole expedition with all able to see Snowdonia at its absolute best. The hikers completed part of the Caernedd loop, climbing to only 20 metres less than the height of Snowdon. All were treated to spectacular views of Snowdon and Trefan: icons of the Welsh mountains.
The sea kayaking took place along part of the Menai Straits and the northern coast of the Llyn Peninsula. There were unusual, strong easterly winds blowing making certain sections bumpy to say the least! All were under canvas throughout and each were able to experience their first truly wild camp as well. The groups were treated to stunning sun sets and rises over the course of their trip. Truly rare weather for North Wales at this time of year!
The students were exemplary throughout and thoroughly enjoyed the experiences had. Navigation, paddling and campcraft skills were all put to the test at certain times. These skills will be further honed with the students next stop being the Isle of Arran, where they will complete their Qualifying Expedition at the end of May.
Huge thanks must go to Miss Gill, Mr Holt, Mr Jay and Mr Batchelder for giving their time and expertise. Mr Batchelder and Mr Jay reckoned they completed well over 130,000 steps each over the four days, while carrying all their own equipment to camp – certainly not for the faint hearted!
