Combined Cadet Force

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is a voluntary youth organisation based in schools and colleges. It is sponsored and administered by the Ministry of Defence. CCF units, known as contingents, may comprise up to 4 sections: Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army and Royal Air Force. The MOD sponsors the CCF and provides some financial aid, administered by the respective service – which in our case is the Royal Navy.

The CCF mission:

“Provide a disciplined organisation in a school so that pupils may develop powers of leadership by means of training to promote the qualities of responsibility, self-reliance, resourcefulness, endurance and perseverance.”

At EBA the CCF is open to students in Years 9-13. Students in Years 8 and 9 can apply to join in the summer term each year.

The CCF is open to both young men and young women, providing a co-educational opportunity for Ernest Bevin students.

The focus is on developing confidence, team working and leadership skills. Activities include map reading, fieldcraft, navigation, fitness, first aid, camping and military knowledge.

The skills developed in the CCF are very transferable both to the worlds of work and university. The most significant skills we look to develop are those of leadership, team work and communication. You can add your CCF experience to your CV and/or UCAS personal statement.

Year 8 and 9 students are invited to apply in May each year. If you want to join, you should:

• Collect an application form from Mr Riches.
• Complete the application and get it signed by your parent/carer giving you permission to take part in the application process.
• Hand the application form to the Reception desk.

You will then be invited to join the selection phase which normally lasts 4-5 weeks. During the selection phase, you must attend each week after college on a Tuesday. If you are successful, you will be accepted into the next wave of training.