Members of Carr Hill’s Combined Cadet Force spent last week at Wathgill Infantry Training Centre in Catterick where they had a taste of military life- taking part in adventurous training, team work activities, 200m ranges, military manoeuvres and more.
The Carr Hill students spent six days at the training centre sleeping in dorms and getting up at 5am each morning. Pupils participated in a range of challenging activities including; guiding your squad through a mine field, leading in the dark and code breaking puzzles. The cadets also had the chance to learn how to use the PRR (Personal Role Radio) and DCCT (Dismounted Close Combat Trainer –an indoor computer simulated range) and shotgun range.
The trip also included one outside overnight stay with an all-night mission of “Occupying and defending a farm house from suspected enemy forces while simultaneously patrolling to seek and destroy enemy area of operations”. Students and staff took it in turns to ensure the area was kept safe all night with each person being given a one hour shift. During their stay outside students also learnt about ‘Operating in built up areas’ which involved learning how to patrol, fight in the streets and assault houses.
History teacher Lt Yates runs the programme . He said: “This residential trip was an invaluable opportunity for the cadets to build teamwork skills, develop confidence and learn new things. The residential stay is a challenging and demanding week as it is designed to reflect many aspects of military life. The cadets did Carr Hill proud and showed a fantastic work ethic, enthusiasm and commitment. Well done to all the students involved.”
Carr Hill run the combined cadets programme with Kirkham Grammar School who deliver the initiative which Carr Hill access to support the programme of provision between the two schools. Students who are interested in joining the Combined Cadet Force should register their interest with Mr Yates (in HU3). The Combined Cadet Force activities take place at Kirkham Grammar School each Thursday 15.00 – 16.00.
Combined Cadet Forces
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