The Wellington Academy - view of entrance.

Combined Cadet Force (CCF)

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) gives pupils at the Academy the opportunity to be part of a Ministry of Defence sponsored youth organisation. The CCF offers a variety of activities that aim to develop self-discipline, resilience and a sense of achievement for young people.  The CCF has the full support of the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team. Although sponsored and funded by the MOD, the CCF is not a recruiting tool for the Armed Forces.  Cadets at the Academy are organised as a single service unit, based on the structure/ranks of the British Army, although some schools also cater for RN and RAF cadets.

Covenant banner - Proudly Supporting Those Who Serve.

About The CCF

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) gives pupils at the Academy the opportunity to be part of a Ministry of Defence sponsored youth organisation.  The CCF offers a variety of activities that aim to develop self-discipline, resilience and a sense of achievement for young people.  The CCF has the full support of the Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team.  Although sponsored and funded by the MOD, the CCF is not a recruiting tool for the Armed Forces.  Cadets at the Academy are organised as a single service unit, based on the structure/ranks of the British Army, although some schools also cater for RN and RAF cadets.

Eligibility

Pupils are eligible to join the CCF from year nine and, during term-time, meet on Wednesday afternoon from 1515 until 1800hrs.  Additionally, there are opportunities to take part in activities such as Annual Camp and weekend training sessions.  Courses are also available throughout the year both for military training and adventurous activities such as canoeing, hill walking and rock climbing.  The military syllabus delivers training on areas such as shooting and field-craft but also provides young people valuable life skills such as first aid, navigation plus the chance to develop their leadership potential.

Participation

Cadets are never forced to participate in training activities but are always encouraged to try new things and work with others during a range of settings.  The CCF understands that there may be parents/guardians, and indeed cadets, who have concerns about shooting and weapon handling.  Such reservations should not prevent pupils joining the CCF and playing a full part in all other activities whilst opting out of shooting etc.  The safety and well-being of all the Academy cadets remains the top priority of the Head Teacher and CCF staff.

Who manages the CCF?

The CCF at the Wellington Academy is managed by the Contingent Commander, a former Regular Army officer from the Parachute Regiment who is supported by a School Staff Instructor (SSI) a former Warrant Officer from the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.  Other officers and NCO instructors are a mix of teachers from the Academy plus, volunteers from the local community. All staff are formally trained and regularly accessed by professional, full time, members of the South West Region Cadet Training Team.

How is it funded?

The Contingent is fortunate to be sponsored by 26 Engineer Regiment RE, based here in Tidworth and cadets are enormously proud to wear the Royal Engineer (Sapper) cap badge.

The MOD provides funding to cover the majority of cadet activities such as food, clothing, equipment and transport.  However, parents and guardians are expected to pay for boots for their child plus an annual subscription of £35 to cover incidentals not funded by the School/MOD.  Residential courses and camps also attract additional, modest charges but, these costs are notified separately to parent/guardians.

Mr Rob Wood, Headteacher and Colonel Gary McDade signed the Armed Forces Covenant on 1st November 2023

The Covenant serves as a powerful public declaration of our unwavering commitment to providing the very best education for the remarkable children of Army families within our community.

At The Wellington Academy, we recognise and appreciate the unique challenges that our service children face and we stand firm in our mission to support these incredible students, ensuring they receive the exceptional education they deserve .

The signing of the Armed Forces Covenant is not only a commitment but also a celebration of the incredible diversity and experiences that these service children bring with them to our school.  We believe in embracing and cherishing these diverse backgrounds, as they enrich our learning environment and create a stronger, more interconnected community.

Download the signed Covenant
Mr Rob Wood, Headteacher of The Wellington Academy and Colonel Gary McDade signing the Armed Forces Covenant on 1st November 2023

The CCF Opening

The Wellington Academy Combined Cadet Force (CCF) Opening