CCF Cadets Enjoy Action-Packed Training Camp

The Combined Cadet Force enjoyed an exhilarating start to their training camp at Altcar, with Cadets immediately immersing themselves in a demanding and varied programme of activities. From marksmanship to urban operations, the first few days were packed with challenge, competition and camaraderie.

The camp opened on Sunday with a thrilling range experience. On the 25m range, Cadets demonstrated excellent marksmanship, with Arran Nicol earning the title of Best Shot thanks to a remarkable 27mm grouping, just ahead of Freddie Fielding, whose 30mm grouping secured a close second place. The afternoon saw a shift to more fast-paced fun, with Cadets narrowly defeating Birkenhead High School for Girls in a tense archery competition before moving on to archery tag and a laser shotgun shoot-off. The latter ended in a nail-biting finish as Freddie Fielding claimed victory with a score of 75, narrowly edging out Billy MacDonald.

Monday brought tactical training in TIBUA (Training in Built-Up Areas), often referred to as “storming the castle”. Despite soaring temperatures curtailing the afternoon’s physical activities, Cadets responded with flexibility, working in teams to plan simulated assaults and present their tactical thinking to directing staff, an exercise that highlighted both the leadership and initiative of the Cadets.

The Altcar Challenge on Tuesday tested Cadets’ resilience, adaptability and teamwork through a demanding series of six rotating tasks. These included a gruelling obstacle course, a cyber and communications challenge, a high-pressure vehicle checkpoint scenario, and a thrilling close-quarters paintball lane.

The bonds formed and skills developed in just a few days have made this a memorable and rewarding experience for all involved.