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Leadership

The St Benedict's CCF

The CCF exists in some 500 independent & maintained schools throughout the country & has expanded massively in recent years. There is no obligation or expectation that a Cadet who joins the CCF in Year 9 will go on to join the Armed Services; the aim of the CCF is to develop transferable skills & qualities which will be useful in later life. These include leadership, responsibility, self-confidence, initiative, reliance, team spirit, & pride in one’s appearance & Contingent. 

Activities incorporate varied & interesting training with a military bias: training may include shooting, military exercises, outdoor pursuits, personal development exercises, obstacle courses, & visits to Regular Army units. All of this will provide background knowledge of the British Army, in particular the Corps of Royal Engineers, whose cap-badge we are privileged to wear. Cadets will also engage with pupils from different year-groups & social groups, especially since our Contingent recruits not only from St Benedict's, but also from the Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School in Greenford.

Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award consists of:

  • Volunteering: undertaking service to individuals or the community.
  • Physical: improving in an area of sport, dance or fitness activities.
  • Skills: developing practical and social skills and personal interests.
  • Expedition: planning, training for, and completion of an adventurous 2, 3, and 4 day trek in increasingly challenging terrain – from the Chiltern Hills (Bronze) to Snowdonia (Gold).
  • At Gold level, participants must do an additional fifth Residential section, which involves staying and working away from home for five days, doing a shared activity.

D of E is highly regarded by universities and employers, who recognise the level of personal development the awards represent. Gold is a particularly impressive achievement, and these awards are formally presented at Buckingham Palace or St James’ Palace, often by HRH Prince Edward.

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