Ripley cadets triumph in national competition

In overall rankings, the team of 15 cadets came 4th out of 13 RAF-CCF sections nationally (including Scotland and Wales) and notably 2nd in the First Aid section and 3^rd in the Leadership Command Task. This places Ripley CCF on results, the best state school out of 260 contingents in the country.

The day consisted of a full programme of challenging tasks in Leadership and Command, First Aid simulated exercises in a hangar involving a helicopter, drill and uniform inspections, timed exams on space topics and cyber/aircraft recognition and shooting on the Air Rifle Range.

The day ended with a full parade hosted by Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Al Lewis present.

The hours of training, concentration and determination is not only a credit to what the CCF can instil in young people but also to their personal credit.

“We are glowing with pride. Many of these schools who qualified are independent schools with very well-established contingencies and are used to being in the finals. Getting to these finals is no mean effort in itself for any of them so we are thrilled to see how well our cadets have done. They were up at 0600, fully focused on the challenging tasks in ‘immaculate’ blues and did not stop until 1800 when we got back on the coach to come home. They are a privilege to work with.” 

Plt Off Vasey-Saunders, School Staff Instructor, Ripley St Thomas Combined Cadet Force

None of this would be possible without the dedication and support from the CCF staff in school and external support together with dedicated parents who work tirelessly to pass on their skills to ensure young people get the best from their CCF experience.

Photo credit: Plt Off Vasey-Saunders

Caption: Ripley CCF cadets during drill practice at the Royal Air Squadron trophy finals on 23^rd March at RAF Cosford