The CCF has been part of Trent College life since the school’s foundation in 1868. Formerly the TCCC (Trent College Cadet Corps) it was renamed the Combined Cadet Force by the War Office in 1948. Today, all Year 10 pupils participate in the programme within the Army or RAF Sections and the CCF journey extends into Year 11 and the Sixth Form for those who wish to continue.
As a Ministry of Defence sponsored youth activity it exists “to promote the qualities of responsibility, self-reliance, resourcefulness, endurance and perseverance and a sense of service to the community.
A catalyst for lifelong success
Trent College is dedicated to developing the character strengths of all pupils throughout their time at school. The CCF supports pupils in developing self-reliance, resourcefulness and teamwork skills in a variety of new and challenging situations.
There were remarkable achievements at our 2023 CCF(Army) Summer Camp, where 15 Trent College Cadets represented the school in a strong field of 370 participants from schools across the country. They demonstrated their excellent capabilities, resulting in the second-highest scoring school overall.
In a further display of talent and dedication, Trent College Cadets proudly reached the podium in 5 out of ten competitions hosted on the final day. This recognised and celebrated their strong performances in activities including mountain biking and paintballing, command tasks and escape rooms, indoor shoots and drill.
Opportunities for development
Exemplifying the school’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals, the CCF provides additional opportunities to pupils. One such opportunity was for three Year 12 Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) to participate in the prestigious Air Cadet Leadership Course (ACLC).
This week-long course focusing on leadership theory, practical application, personal challenges, and high-standard drill, is regarded as the gold standard in cadet leadership courses. One such pupil, Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major Bussell, comments “On the ACLC I enjoyed being able to adapt through different scenarios working alongside the same team throughout the whole course, gaining leadership and communication skills that I know will support me in future. Trent CCF has given me the ability to lead other cadets, learn management skills and is also a great laugh with other cadets on our field days!”
Alumni spotlight
The positive impact of the CCF experience at Trent College extends beyond the school gates, influencing the life choices and career paths of numerous Cadets.
Old Trident Alex Webster (class of 2020) was an enthusiastic member of the school’s RAF section and it was during Year 10 that his cadet experience influenced his love of aircraft, which later became a passion for flying them too. Alex is now on the path to reaching his dream of becoming a commercial airline pilot as he prepares to join the L3 Harris Airline Academy for multi-engine aircraft commercial licensing and instrument flying. Read more about Alex’s journey.
Another notable success story is Old Trident Freddie Hopkisson (class of 2018) who aspired to join the British Army. Having excelled as a Cadet at Trent College, he graduated RMA Sandhurst into the Welsh Guards in January 2023. Within weeks, Second Lieutenant FWV Hopkisson received the honour of being selected as King’s Ensign for the 2023 Trooping the Colour.
Reflecting on his journey, Freddie acknowledges the fundamental role that Trent College and the CCF had in shaping his career in the Armed Forces, “I honestly believe that the foundations I learnt at Trent have served me well throughout my career so far and I will always have fond memories of my time at school, especially those with the CCF which ultimately set me on my path toward the British Army. Hats off to Mr McIntyre! He served as such a great role model for those of us that wanted to join the Armed Forces during our time at school”. Read more about Freddie’s achievements on our Alumni blog.
The CCF is just one of many exciting personal growth opportunities available at each stage of the Trent College school journey. At Trent, everyone has the chance to discover new passions, learn new and take existing talents to the next level. To discuss your child joining our vibrant school community, please contact the Admissions team via the online enquiry form.
A selection of images from our CCF activities and opportunities:
