WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY....
NURTURING LEADERSHIP THROUGH MILITARY ADVENTURES
Comment by Maj. DAVID FORBES-WHITEHEAD, Contingent Commander, St Albans School CCF
C
CF (Combined Cadet Force) is gaining popularity amongst students today due to its emphasis on personal development, leadership skills, and teamwork. The tri service (Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force) cadet force which exists in schools, adopts a military theme in a structured environment to provide engaging opportunities for problem- solving, adventure training, self-discipline, and community service, with the aim of driving personal growth. Essentially, the experience encourages young people to take responsibility for themselves as they grow in confidence and build social connections. Likewise, young people will also develop key leadership skills as they take on various challenges and move through the rank structure, while taking greater accountability for others around them.
As we become more locked into technology, CCF increasingly offers students an opportunity to get outdoors and physically interact with their peers through the activities offered within the CCF syllabus. It also gives young people the chance to tackle activities and challenges they otherwise wouldn’t have participated in. How many students get the chance to fire live weapons, experience the thrill of flying planes or gliding, or participate in overseas expeditions as part of their education? More importantly it provides a level playing field at the beginning of the journey for everyone who joins through the CCF, and as such it reaches out to, and develops even the most quiet and shyest of students.
Developing confidence, resilience, determination and self-efficacy is a huge part of engaging in CCF training, but the softer life skills like communication and teamwork are equally valid. Even participating in the dreaded “drill” teaches collaboration and evokes an immense feeling of satisfaction when a
tricky sequence or parade is completed. Students will also learn basic first aid, and fieldcraft which encompasses living and looking after themselves in the outdoors -
and marksmanship, which teaches transferable lessons in concentration, focus, determination and self-discipline. As well as navigation, students will also have the opportunity to develop their music and vocational qualifications. The CCF values lean heavily on those of the armed services and this in turn reinforces the schools’ values contributing positively to overall outcomes. The University of Northampton recently completed a study on the impact and value of CCF and reported that cadets have lower levels of absenteeism and exhibit more responsible attitudes and supportive behaviours, which leads to positive relationships between both staff and peers. It went on to state that its structured activities help promote mental health and wellbeing, and that this enhances student resilience, preparing them to deal with future challenges. At St Albans we are fortunate to have a network of alumni who are currently serving in the armed forces and are able to pass on the benefit and wisdom of their knowledge and experiences to the younger cadets through inspiring visits. Every young person should have the opportunity to engage with Cadet Forces. For parents, it is excellent value for money and for young people, it provides a unique opportunity to engage with positive role models and receive peer mentoring. CCF training influences career aspirations and ambitions, challenging and pushing young people out of their comfort zones. Without challenge there is no personal growth and so learning to navigate life’s hurdles through these kinds of programmes can only be a positive step for young men and women today.
DESIGNING PRINT THAT WORKS HARDER IN SCHOOLS
Comment by ANDREW WHYTE, Managing Director, LT Print Group I
n a time when digital learning tools dominate conversations in education, it’s easy to overlook the value of traditional print. Yet across the UK’s schools, from nurseries to sixth forms, print quietly continues to do something vital; it shapes the way students learn, move, and engage with their environment. From the walls of the assembly hall to the displays in a classroom, printed materials are everywhere, and when designed well, they do far more than
decorate. They communicate, reinforce school values, provide structure, and create a consistent identity that helps students feel proud of where they are. Print as a daily influence
Schools are complex spaces. They’re places of learning, social development, safety, and identity, and print has a role to play in each of those areas. A motivational quote in the corridor may seem simple, but it can become a subconscious reinforcement of school values. A well-designed subject wall, for example celebrating key figures in science, can subtly ignite interest or spark conversation.
Wall graphics, floor vinyls, display boards, and classroom visuals help create a sense of place. And when these elements are designed to be consistent with the school’s ethos and brand, whether through colour schemes, typefaces, or tone of voice, they become tools for cohesion as much as communication. Signage and functionality
Practical printed signage is another area where schools can see real benefit. Clear wayfinding doesn’t just help visitors, it also supports pupils, particularly those with SEND or those in large multi-building campuses. Colour-coding
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areas by year group, subject, or purpose can bring structure and order to even the busiest spaces.
Temporary signage is equally important but sometimes overlooked, for example think open evening posters, exam-day notices, or safety messaging. These are opportunities to reinforce identity while delivering useful information. Even something as simple as a branded “Welcome” board can have a significant impact on how confident or safe a student, parent or even staff member, feels when walking into a school. Making print work harder
For schools looking to refresh or invest in their printed materials, the focus should be on longevity and intent. What is the material trying to say or do? Is it accessible and inclusive in its design? Could it serve more than one purpose?
Durability matters too. Laminated or wipeable materials are practical in high-traffic areas. Reusable templates can be used for multiple events or notices across the school year. And small design choices, such as including school logos, colours, or values, can turn a functional item into something that quietly reinforces identity and pride. A visual layer of culture
The physical environment in schools plays a role in how students behave, how they feel, and how they learn. Print is part of that environment. It provides consistency, clarity, and colour. It can turn a dull corridor into a celebration of achievement. It can guide, welcome, and inspire without needing to be interactive or digital.
As budgets continue to be stretched, schools need every investment to count. And sometimes, that means looking again at the basics. Thoughtful print design isn’t a luxury, it goes far beyond that. It’s a strategic tool that supports both communication and culture.
June 2025
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