CCF
A SUCCESSFUL YEAR, A PROMISING FUTURE
It has been a full throttle experience during the Contingents first full year but we wouldn’t change it! Matravers CCF have set the bar high for years to come following a combination of individual and Contingent successes this year. Our highlights include a Corporal Cannings being recognised for his leadership in the Westbury Youth Awards, Corporal Bradbeer sharing the role of Mayors cadet 2018/19 and the incredible impression the Contingent left with HQSW cadet training team at Central Camp.
We have been very active since the last newsletter so please enjoy some of the adventures the cadets have undertaken and challenged.
EXPEDITION SKILLS W/E MARCH 2018
The cadets challenged the Black Mountains national park in March, little would they know their trip would be cut short by some aggressive snow! The cadets conquered the Sugarloaf and Table Mountain during their expedition and truly developed their understanding of managing their layers and equipment. Each cadet took something away from this trip as for many it was their first winter expedition, but one learnt that managing ones kit is especially important or you may be burgled by squirrels. The 2nd day of this trip really did present some challenging conditions and the cadets really began to understand the importance of learning their navigation skills.
Sadly this trip was cut short, but we felt that the cadets safety was imperative and we did receive a lot of snow the following week.
EASTER CAMP APRIL 2018
Easter camp enjoyed a mixed start to our week away, we met Mr Ryle our climbing instructor shortly after departing school and arrived at the campsite in good time. 2Lt Paginton had a little running around to do after realising we did not have any structure for the staff accommodation. This did not deter our programme, our NCO’s with Lt Hervey and Mr Ryle went to recce our climbing venue whilst the younger cadets began a navigation exercise, introducing them to the mountains
www.matravers.wilts.sch.uk of South Wales.
During the recce the NCO’s had the opportunity to participate in abseiling, their reports suggested they really enjoyed this activity even if it appeared quite daunting to begin. We were extremely satisfied that the cadets had the opportunity to undertake something new as we look to build upon the cadet experience. Our younger cadets completed a trek utilising their navigation skills, with many overcoming the obstacle of the inclines presented to them. It was also a great opportunity for some second generation cadets to lead without the NCO’s being around, we caught glimpses of skills that we will develop further as the contingent continues to grow.
The second day of Easter Camp saw the cadets explore the Grynwe Fawr valley, during this day they took part in a series of team challenges. These challenges tested their first aid knowledge, teamwork and communication skills. The First Aid challenge presented the scenario of an unconscious casualty in difficult to manage terrain, the teamwork challenges were a fire making challenge in damp conditions, a blindfolded obstacle course and a co-ordination game. Despite quite disappointing weather, the cadets persevered and did really well to make the most of the scenery and activities they faced.
During our third day, we split the contingent into two groups. The groups shared a castle exploration with half a day climbing, we visited Morlais Castle and White Castle whilst climbing took place at Morlais Quarry. Sadly with didn’t get the climbing pitch we wanted but the cadets made light work of the easier parts of our back up rock face and pushed themselves to get as far as they could. Their belaying and communication skills were excellent throughout as they encouraged and
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