CCF Events & Activities

Ash Manor School CCF: Skill at Arms 4 Training Weekend

Over the course of a busy weekend, 33 cadets from AMS Combined Cadet Force (CCF) travelled to the Hampshire & Isle of Wight’s Cadet Training Centre at Langley Lines, near Longmoor Camp, to take part in a dedicated Skill at Arms (SAA) training and testing session.

The focus of the weekend was on the Cadet GP A2 rifle, as cadets prepared for the opportunity to shoot at the upcoming Central Camp in July. For several cadets, this was their first time handling the weapon system, making the experience both exciting and a key milestone in their cadet journey.

 Throughout the weekend, cadets engaged in a mix of weapon handling training and formal assessments, working hard to meet the standards required to safely and confidently operate the rifle. Alongside the testing, cadets were also introduced to rifle drill for the first time — an essential part of ceremonial and parade discipline. Despite the high temperatures, frequent water breaks and shade ensured that everyone remained safe and focused, and cadets quickly picked up the drill movements, even if the weight of the weapon provided a bit of a challenge!

By the end of the weekend, the majority of cadets successfully passed their Weapon Handling Test (WHT), with the remaining few not far behind and expected to pass soon. Their progress and determination were clear to see, and the training has set them up well for success at Central Camp.

 We would like to extend our sincere thanks to HIOW ACF for generously allowing us to use their excellent training facilities and accommodation. Their support helped make the weekend a rewarding experience for all involved.

Ash Manor CCF: Exercise Spring Lamb – 23^rd to 25^th May 2025

From the 23rd to the 25th May, 28 cadets from the Army Section of Ash Manor School’s Combined Cadet Force deployed to Mereworth Wood Training Area in Kent to take part in Ex. Spring Lamb — a challenging and rewarding weekend focused on fieldcraft, leadership and soldiering skills.

Over the course of the weekend, cadets were split by training level and experience. The basic and 1-star cadets, led and mentored by senior cadets, were based in a patrol harbour deep in the woods. Here, they developed their understanding of camouflage and concealment, survival in the field, ration pack cooking, and weapon handling. For many, it was the first time they had been issued the Cadet GP rifle, learning quickly that it had to remain with them at all times, even on trips to the toilet — which brought both laughs and lessons in responsibility.

Meanwhile, the 2-star and 3-star cadets were based at a different location on the same training area, operating near Kent ACF and Maidstone Grammar CCF, who were training at the same time. These more advanced cadets spent the weekend rehearsing ambush tactics, section battle drills, and tactical movement, with a final exercise on Sunday morning where they launched a professional and well-executed attack on the junior cadets’ harbour area. Throughout the weekend, they demonstrated a strong grasp of leadership, flexibility, and tactical awareness.

It was a thorough and high-quality training weekend, with cadets of all levels making progress and gaining confidence in their field skills. The exercise also strengthened teamwork across the contingent and set the tone for future CCF training.

 A huge thank you goes to Wellington College CCF for their support in providing the weapon systems for our cadets. Access to this equipment is essential for realistic training and greatly enhances the experience for everyone involved. And thank you to the CFAVs who gave their time to make sure the cadets were provided with high levels of training and safety throughout the weekend. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to take the cadets away on training weekends and give them a better cadet experience.

 Our cadets are already looking forward to their next fieldcraft weekend, eager to put their new skills into action.

​Ash Manor CCF – March and April 2025 Update

March – Air Rifle Training at Tongham Scout Hut

In March, selected cadets from both the Army and Royal Navy sections had the opportunity to test the newly established indoor air rifle range at Tongham Scout Hut. The training day was a great success, with cadets demonstrating excellent focus and safety awareness. We’re excited to continue using this fantastic facility in future training sessions.

March – Bowling Social at Superbowl, Aldershot

In March, almost the entire contingent headed to Superbowl in Aldershot for a fun-filled social evening. The event gave cadets and adult staff a chance to relax and bond outside of lessons and uniform. After a couple of lively games of bowling and a meal together, the cadets took to the arcade machines for some friendly competition. It was a fantastic evening enjoyed by all. 

March – SCIC: Senior Cadet Instructor Course Awards

Two of our senior cadets, Cadet Sergeant Majors Kavanagh and Moore – both former Ash Manor students who have chosen to continue parading with our CCF – successfully completed the week-long Senior Cadet Instructor Course (SCIC). The course, attended by cadets from across the South East, focused on developing high-level instructional techniques and advancing fieldcraft skills. Highly competitive and regarded as a stepping stone to the prestigious Master Cadet programme at Frimley Park, the SCIC demands both commitment and capability. Congratulations to both cadets for their outstanding effort and dedication. 

April – Exercise Sore Feet – Hankley Common

Cadets from both the Army and Royal Navy sections came together in April for Exercise Sore Feet, a challenging one-day expedition held at Hankley Common. The experience began on Friday evening, with cadets working in teams to plan their route cards — a crucial step in avoiding navigational errors and preparing for potential scenarios such as group separation.

Saturday put their planning and navigation skills to the test across the tough terrain of the Hankley Training Area. With steep hills, sandy tracks, and blazing sunshine to contend with, cadets had to remain focused and work together to stay on course. For several newer cadets, this was their first residential experience, where they learned how to cook and eat Army rations, adapt to life without home comforts, and manage being away overnight.

As darkness fell, senior cadets undertook the added challenge of night navigation. With only a few glow sticks for guidance and the light of a clear, moonlit sky, they successfully navigated a large area without losing cohesion — completing the task shortly before midnight.

The weekend concluded with a physically demanding stretcher race on Sunday morning. Cadets worked in teams to carry a simulated casualty over hills and rough ground, testing their fitness, teamwork, and determination to reach the finish point under pressure.

April ￿ Exercise Sore Feet ￿ Hankley Common

April – National Music Camp, Otterburn

During the Easter break, three of our Corps of Drums cadets — Lance Corporals Barrie, Couchman, and Hatherley — attended their first National Music Camp at Otterburn Training Area, near Newcastle. This marked a significant milestone for Ash Manor CCF, as it was the first time our cadets had participated in this national event.

The camp brought together cadets from the Royal Navy, Army, and Air Force sections — both ACF and CCF — from across the UK, all united by a shared passion for music. Over the course of the week, our cadets were immersed in a rigorous schedule of musical training. They developed their understanding of music theory, learned new pieces, and refined the challenging skill of playing the side drum while marching in time.

Through hard work and dedication, they earned a Level 1 CVQO award for music as part of their progression to the 1 Star cadre — a fantastic achievement. Inspired by the skills of more senior musicians, all three cadets are already looking forward to returning for the next camp in October.

April ￿ National Music Camp, Otterburn

Annual Parade

On Thursday 30th of June, the CCF marked its 5th birthday with our first annual parade since 2019. 

 Amongst our many esteemed guests was the Commander of Old College at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Lieutenant Colonel Richard Crawford RA, who gave the keynote speech, Colonel P. Edwards, the 11 Brigade Colonel Cadets, the Deputy Commander Cadets Colonel M. Siebenallar, the Commander of Aldershot Garrison Lieutenant Colonel NSM N. Burley, Major J.F.S Walker TD from the Connaught Trust, and both the former Mayor of Guildford Councillor M. Moseley, and the Mayor of Rushmoor, Councillor J Marsh. 

​During the parade, the Cadets celebrated the achievements of the past 3 years with promotions, awards for qualifications earned during this time, and the première performance of the Corps of Drums.

​We were thrilled that we can once again host our community and celebrate the achievements of our wonderful young people.