We have lots of news from TWGGS CCF. Read on for everything they've been getting up to in recent weeks.
Special Forces was an excellent opportunity to put our fieldcraft skills into practice and learn from the best instructors. The weekend focused on teamwork, communication, and tactical thinking in the field. One of our first tasks was to work together to create a detailed 3D map of Tangier Woods, a beautiful location and an ideal setting for our training.
Key parts of the weekend involved thinking tactically to avoid enemy detection. We learned the use and importance of observation posts (OP) then built them using bracken and other natural materials. After the gruelling work of building OP posts we prepared meals from ration packs and set up and slept in bashas. The next morning we woke up early to get in position to carry out surveillance on another contingent.
This involved lying in the OP posts and crawling 'on our belt buckles' through the undergrowth to move unseen between positions, all whilst collecting information effectively using the same system that the army uses to profile enemy. The training also included weapon procedures involving airsoft rifles and casualty evacuations.
We did TIBUA (training in a built-up area) and medevac (medical evacuation), and much more, all taught by Jordan (an ex-regular Guardsman) who used his first-hand experience to give us the most accurate course possible.
Overall, the weekend was challenging but incredibly rewarding. It improved our teamwork and showcased our resilience and drive, while ultimately giving us a deeper understanding of what it takes to operate effectively in the field.
Freya J, L6B
The first day of SCIC was absolutely terrifying, as I didn’t know anybody going, and frankly wasn’t entirely sure what the course was about, but you soon realise that everybody there is equally as anxious about it, which makes it a lot easier to make friends there. The first afternoon there was really just the officers trying to get us to mingle and talk to each other, and then the next two days were spent on preparing and delivering our assessed lessons. The officers there gave us a reminder of everything we had learnt in a previous teaching course called CFIT (Cadet Forces Instructional Technique), and they helped us properly structure the sessions. Each cadet had to deliver two 30-minute lessons, one theory and one practical, to the rest of their sections, and they would be assessed by their instructor on a scale of 1-10. We were randomly assigned two lesson titles to teach, and it was up to us to familiarise ourselves with all the necessary information.
We all taught our theories back-to-back on the second day, but the day after consisted of teaching our practicals in the morning, and leaving for a 24-hour FTX (Fieldcraft Training Exercise) in the afternoon. We travelled down to Pippingford Park on Ashdown Forest, where we were met with torrential downpour that left us all sitting in troop shelter in an attempt to dry our soaked waterproofs. Unfortunately, minor flooding meant we had to move our harbour area to the top of the hill, so they gave us our weapons and we set up our bashas whilst the sun set.
After a warm rations dinner, we set off for our night ambush, where we hid in bushes on high, covered ground, to surprise the enemy. We were lucky enough to be able to use blank rounds to fire, instead of the usual empty magazine, and we managed to subdue the enemy. Upon our return to our harbour, as a safety precaution, we took on stag duty at night to watch for any potential enemies, and some of us had the joy of waking up at 3:00am for this.
The next day consisted of a recce patrol, where we gathered useful information on the remainder of the enemy forces, which we put to use in the afternoon when we started planning our platoon attack. Each section got a chance to attack the enemy, and be the reserve unit, however, poor communication between the three sections meant that we did not deliver the attack as effectively as we wished. Overall, the mistakes we made really helped us to further our knowledge, and consider how we can improve in future. It was definitely an intense camp, but the amount of skills you gain makes it a very worthwhile experience, and it has helped me become a better senior leader in CCF.
Day 1: CFIT part 2, explaining how to teach lessons again, officers gave exemplary lessons, and we began planning our theory lessons
Day 2: Theory lessons, inside classrooms, got feedback to implement in our practical lessons, started planning practical
Day 3: Practical lessons in morning, 24-hour FTX in afternoon, went to Pippingford Park, where it was chucking it down, built harbour area, planned and executed a night ambush, used proper rifles and fired blanks
Day 4: Woke up at 3:00am to do stag duty, did a recce on enemy, planned and executed our platoon attack, failed horribly, but went back to camp to clean weapons for two-and-a-half hours
Day 5: Go home! Got our certificates and badges then left.
Ana R, L6S
On the first week back from half term, I went on a Cyber First Defenders course run by the Cadet Communication and Information Systems Training Team (CCISTT) on the Blandford Royal Signals camp. This course was aimed at STEM degrees and jobs in the army, consisting of a week's worth of learning and doing challenging projects surrounding cyber security in both work places and personal life.
On the first day, we were introduced to the concept of being 'insecure by default' and how cyber attackers can attack hardware and software. We then went through a program that had different tasks called 'labs' that consolidated our knowledge through activities and allowed us to practise attacking computers using a virtual machine through the website. The next day, we went over data security and how hackers can take advantage of a lack of security to attack using malware, as well as also going through how networks work. We were then tasked with the challenge of looking up a case study about cyber security and presenting it to a ‘government board’ in a business meeting. On the third day, we had learnt how data is transmitted, as well as how hackers may use this to take advantage of computers; we were tasked with a challenge to ‘hack’ into a victim's computer using trojans to lock them out of their computer and mess with their software. In the evening, we set up routers and created our own wireless networks. On the second-to-last day, we finished the content by looking at how we can stay safe online; learning about how public information can lead to easy access of personal information, we also became aware of fake news articles and how much information you can trust from different sources. After lunch, we had entered a cyber competition with another army base, being in teams of four. This competition tested our skills on finding out as much as we can by being given as little information as possible about a photo or a name. We also had many questions about software and operating systems that we had to answer in under two hours. It was a very challenging competition and my team came 2nd out of 10 teams. On the last day, we had packed up from our living accommodation, and were given our certificates and badges by a Royal Signals Colonel; we finished our camp by being given a tour around the officers quarters with some history about the Royal Signals, and then being taken around the Royal Signals museum. Overall, this CyberFirst camp was so interesting and helpful; it gave me a better understanding of what cyber security is about, as well as an insight into what it may be like to be in the Royal Signals. It was amazing to be given the opportunity to have a taste of such a specific career path and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in it.
Claudia M, L6B
After school on Friday, 31st of October, the new Y9 CCF cadets drove down to St Martins Plain army camp near Folkestone. When we arrived, we were allocated the billets (dormitories) we would be staying in and headed down to the mess hall for dinner. The food was surprisingly good and for our first night we had stew and buttery roast potatoes. There were other things to choose from too though, such as salads and pork, orange slices, juices and and a big slab of chocolate brownie or crumble and custard for pudding. After a big, very filling dinner, we had our first two lessons which included one of our first weapons lessons. After our lessons were over, we headed back to our billets and chose our beds and, before unpacking, had to have a billet inspection where we had to stand at the end of our beds at ease waiting to be told whether our beds were straight, or that our pillows were flat enough and that our uniform was neat enough. Eventually, we could get ready for bed and go to sleep. In the morning, we had an early start, waking up at 5:45am for an early breakfast which was a full English breakfast, toast, yoghurt and granola, fruit and water and juices. After another filling meal, we headed out for our lessons. These included: navigation, signals, first aid, fieldcraft, drill and lots of weapons including a test at the end of the day. At lunch time, we had a packed lunch, which included a sandwich, crisps, water, biscuits, a chocolate bar, and a piece of fruit. Over the course of the day, we learned many army terms, how to put someone in the recovery position, the different types of ammunition, how to take apart and put a cadet rifle back together, the principles of marksmanship and so many other important skills. At the end of the day, we had another filling and surprisingly good dinner which included chicken, salad, potatoes, fruit and brownie and crumble for pudding. After dinner we had our last two lessons including a weapons test which everyone passed. We then had a billet inspection which was similar to the first day, but the expectations were higher and then headed to bed for another early start the next morning. When we woke up, we had another good breakfast which was the same as the day before, and headed back to the billets in our groups with our group leader (our IC) and got our full uniform including our smock and berets which we sewed our cap badges to, over the left eye. After we were taught how to wear our uniforms in the smartest way, we went outside to the parade square where we were awarded our rank slides and we then waited for the coach to take us back to school. Overall, it was a very fun experience where I learned a lot about CCF and myself.
Ivy S-S, 9T
We have two reports from cadets who travelled to London to take part in the annual War Widows' Parade:
'On Saturday, 8th November a group of TWGGS CCF cadets travelled up to London to take part in the annual War Widows’ Parade. This event honours those who have lost loved ones in service and gives them an opportunity to come together and share their stories. The day began with the chance to speak to several war widows and hear their stories of reliance after the passing of their loved ones. Many shared how they managed life after loss as well as the importance of this annual event. Each story was incredibly moving as they showed different aspects of resilience whether it was the pride they still felt for their loved ones or of the lifelong friendships this community has provided them with. For many of us this was a powerful reminder that remembrance is not just about history or ceremonies; it is about families whose lives were changed forever. After meeting the war widows, we prepared to take our place in the parade. While some of our cadets lined the route to support the procession, others formed up at the end of the parade, ready to march. Following the beat of the marching band, our cadets marched alongside the widows as they made their way past the cenotaph, honouring those who served and never returned home to their families. Members of the public lined the streets, many stopping to watch, clap and share the moment. Throughout the parade there were displays of quiet reflections, proud salutes and connections between the widows, cadets and spectators. It was a privilege to be part of such a significant event.
For the TWGGS cadets, the day was more than just a parade. It was a chance to represent the school and our Cadet Force, but also to engage with remembrance in a personal way. Many of us left with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made not only by those who fought for our country but also by the families they left behind. Overall, attending the War Widows’ Parade was an honour and an unforgettable experience. It encouraged us to reflect on the values of service, community, and remembrance, values that remain just as important today as they have throughout history.'
Isabella H, L6B 'The Saturday before Remembrance Sunday, the War Widows Association holds its own service at the Cenotaph. TWGGS CCF went up to London to participate. First, we met and chatted to all the attendants, listening to their remarkable stories. For the actual service some Army cadets lined the streets while the rest joined the parade. The band was at the front, followed by the Standard party. The Standard party consisted of the three Navy Cadets who went and Leading Hand Bowman was the Standard bearer so was carrying the War Widows Association Standard (their flag). The standard party was followed by the rest of the attendees and the TWGGS Army cadets as we marched to the Cenotaph, paying respects as we passed it by saluting. The service is similar to the Remembrance Sunday service with hymns, and recitations, two-minute silence, and wreath laying.'
Yashvitha N, U6G
Two of our cadets share their experiences of the parade in Tunbridge Wells on Remembrance Sunday:
'TWGGS were, again, given the amazing opportunity to march at the Cenotaph for the Remembrance War Widows Parade on Saturday, 8th November and to parade in Tunbridge Wells on Sunday, 9th November. A few days before, we collected our uniform in preparation for the events and we ensured we were as smart as possible. We made sure our performance was outstanding by practising every lunchtime in the lead up to the Remembrance weekend - although it was tiring it was fun and definitely worth it! On Sunday we walked into Tunbridge Wells and marched from Albion Road to the War Memorial which was also a fantastic experience. During the service we pay respect to those who sacrificed and continue to sacrifice their lives for our safety. When the service starts, TWGGS CCF stands in the parade with several other schools and contingents. Meanwhile, Standard bearers representing each contingent carry their Standard (flag) on the stairs either side of the memorial. Various members of government, officers and public lay wreaths. From TWGGS, Dr Blanch laid the wreath and TWGGS CCF had Sergeant Tomlinson lay down a separate wreath. The Parade salutes for the two-minute silence at 11:00 and for the National Anthem while the Standard bearers dip the Standards as a mark of respect. After the service ends, all the contingents do the March Past. The Standard party led TWGGS with the Navy and then the Army following behind, and marched past the War Memorial, paying respect to both the memorial and the Mayor. After the service, we were pleased to receive compliments for our marching, turnout and our overall great portrayal of TWGGS CCF. I have thoroughly enjoyed the Remembrance weekend and am very proud to have been a part of these events.'
Samantha H, 11T and Yashvitha N, U6G
We also received some lovely feedback from a parent, Mrs Williams, who spoke with Duncan, the Standard Flag bearer at the Remembrance Day Service. She said, 'I stopped him to say how wonderful the service had been and that we had been there to support TWGGS and CCF. Duncan said what a credit TWGGS CCF are to the school and our community, how impeccably and beautifully they carry out their duties, and their marching skills are like no others — and I agree. They are magnificent. It turned out Duncan's wife was a Twiglet too, and he said how proud it makes her each year.'
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