The Army Section of the Reading Blue Coat Combined Cadet Force (CCF) enjoyed a challenging and rewarding summer camp from Sunday to Friday, filled with a wide range of activities that tested cadets’ physical endurance, mental resilience and leadership skills. The camp not only gave cadets the opportunity to develop new abilities but also strengthened teamwork, character and confidence.

 

Monday – Tactics and Fieldcraft

The week began with an intensive focus on tactics and fieldcraft. Cadets took part in urban warfare training and practised section attacks using blank-firing rounds. They also engaged in paired attack drills using paintball equipment, enhancing their communication and tactical awareness in high-pressure scenarios.

Tuesday – Survival Skills and Axe Throwing

After a night under the stars, sleeping out under bashas, Tuesday introduced cadets to survival training. They learned essential bushcraft skills in the field before trying axe throwing – a demanding exercise that tested focus, accuracy and composure.

Wednesday – Marksmanship on the Range

Wednesday saw cadets on the shooting ranges, firing the GP L98A2 rifle at a distance of 100 metres. Their discipline and dedication were rewarded, with many earning their Trained Shot and Marksman badges, an impressive reflection of their effort and precision.

Thursday – Adventure Training

Cadets took part in a variety of adventure training activities including raft building, paddleboarding, kayaking and off-road mountain biking. These physically demanding challenges encouraged resilience, confidence and mutual support among the group.

Friday – Inter-School Competition

The week concluded with an inter-school competition involving cadets from across the region. Events included drill, cipher decoding, military knowledge, mountain biking, archery, and axe throwing. The Reading Blue Coat cadets approached each challenge with enthusiasm and determination.

Outstanding Achievements

Now in its second year attending the camp, the Army Section faced strong competition from numerous schools. The cadets excelled, achieving Gold Awards in Drill, Archery and Axe Throwing, and Bronze Awards in Pigeon Shooting and Cipher. These achievements contributed to the team being named Best Overall Team, with Squadron Corporal Major Daniel Steele proudly accepting the prestigious glass trophy on behalf of the contingent.

Individual Honours

Several cadets were recognised for their exceptional performance throughout the week:

• Best Cadet – Corporal of the Horse Jasper D-C
• Best Year 9 Cadet – Tom W, who was also promoted to Lance Corporal
• Most Improved Cadet – Sam P

An Experience to Remember

Summer camp continues to be a valuable part of the CCF programme, offering cadets the chance to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new challenges. The camp is a true reflection of the cadet ethos, developing teamwork, discipline, resilience and leadership. All cadets represented Reading Blue Coat with pride and determination, upholding the values of the Cadet Forces throughout the week.

You can view the full photo gallery to see all the action and highlights from the week.