Rydal Penrhos Combined Cadet Force goes from strength to strength.
One of the newest initiatives in school is its Combined Cadet Force, which has gone from strength-to-strength since its inception thanks to the tireless commitment of programme leaders Capt. Alun Brown and Sgt. Phil Hilton, together with the unrivalled enthusiasm of pupils and teacher Fleur Coates.
Its popularity during the autumn term has grown even further, with the introduction of 26 new ‘recruit’ cadets into the Army Section.
This number takes the full CCF roll to 38 and ensures that the Army Section is looking in a healthy position for the future.
Captain Brown, said: “The increase of 26 new Year 8s is fantastic and we are all excited about the opportunities that they will soon be able to enjoy.
“The restrictions of the global pandemic have proved tricky for the continuance of training but the Rydal Penrhos CCF staff have worked hard to adapt to the new regulations which keep the cadets safe while having fun.
“The Year 8s now parade on a Tuesday afternoon while the Year 11 Leadership Cadre known as Waterloo Platoon meet after school to train in a separate location.
“When regulations permit, the Year 11 senior cadets will be promoted to leadership positions leading and managing the training of our younger cadets – something to look forward to later in the year when our regulations permit.”
The Year 8 contingent – also known as Lucknow Platoon – recently started their Army Proficiency Certificate training programme learning basic skills in map reading, first aid and drill under the guidance and support of Sergeant Hilton and Mrs Coates.
The Cadet Team Training Team (CTT) has been allowed to start returning to school units under strict COVID-19 regulations.
Sgt. Nik John from 160 Brigade CTT assisted with the training of the Year 8s and has just issued the new kit and equipment.
“We look forward to them looking smart and proud in their new uniforms,” added Captain Brown.
Year 11 will also be participating in their Methods of Instruction and Leadership Skills course next year, which is set to further boost key transferable skills to use in their daily lives.
Another major bonus for the older members of Rydal Penrhos’ thriving CCF is the news regarding the Cadet Centre for Outdoor Training (CCAT) in Capel Curig, which will soon be re-opening its doors and offering a huge amount of exciting opportunities and experiences while gaining accredited qualifications.
Capt. Brown, said: “I would personally like to thank the CCF staff; Sgt. Hilton, Mrs Coates and also 160 Brigade CTT for all their hard work and efforts, and of course our new Year 8 recruits for being so willing to try new things and get involved in a new club.
“I hope as regulations permit during the course of next year we will be able to take them out of school to experience a host of exciting activities while also welcoming our sponsor regiment The 1st Queen’s Dragoon Guards to visit them in school.”
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Rydal Penrhos is now able to offer private tours to prospective pupils and their families.
For more information email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or book online at https://rydal.wpengine.com/open-days-visits.
