CCF

The CCF (RN) unit at Gravesend Grammar School was set up as part of the Cadet Expansion Programme, designed to give more pupils in state schools access to a wide range of opportunities.

We welcome cadets from September of year 9 and recruitment usually takes place in term 6 of year 8, with a taste evening being held to show off some of what we do.

We have 3 adult volunteers (CFAVs) and 1 School Staff Instructor (SSI) who all work together to provide a varied programme for the cadets. We are supported by an Area Instructor, who assists us with organising field days and putting theory into practice.

We try to ensure that all cadets get the chance to gain promotion to higher ranks by teaching them the theoretical knowledge required on a wide range of topics from Royal Navy history to navigation at sea. Once cadets have been awarded their Able Cadet (2 or 3 star), we encourage them to start leading sessions themselves, giving them the chance to develop skills such as leadership, communication and organisation.

At various points during the school year, we organise Field Days for the cadets. These may involve a visit to Chatham Dockyard, mountain biking near Box Hill, open canoeing on the River Wey, completing assault courses at HMS Collingwood or learning how to run the Field Gun.

We have also had visits from former students who are now serving in the Armed Forces and the Royal Navy’s outreach STEM team, who run a range of activities for cadets to complete.

We are proud to be able to represent the school at Gravesham council’s annual Flag Flying event to celebrate Armed Forces Day in June and at their Remembrance Service in November.

Cadets also have the opportunity to take part in a wider range of courses run by the Royal Navy. Our cadets have completed first aid courses (with the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification), leadership courses (at junior and senior level), introductions to paddle boarding, sailing and powerboating as well as experiencing life as a Royal Marine Commando.