As a parent you're bound to have lots of questions about the Combined Cadet Force and what your child will be doing when they become a member. These FAQs should give you a comprehensive overview of the activities they undertake and the expectations that we have of them.
Below are some of the most common questions we get (click to view answer), but if there is something we haven't covered do get in touch with our CCF staff at: ccf@st-georges-academy.org they will be pleased to help you with any enquiries.
How much does it cost?
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Most activities are centrally funded through the RAF which helps to keep costs down. Cadets may be required to pay towards some activities, for example an annual week-long camp might be £50 - a small amount considering what's involved.
We also charge subscriptions, currently £12 per term (£36 per year), to cover running costs, transport etc. This can be paid through parent pay.
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At what age can my son or daughter join?
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Cadets can join from 12 if they are in year 8 at school, however for some activities such as flying, cadets must be 13¼. For other activities like scholarships, cadets must be 16.
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Are they expected to join the military?
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No. Although the CCF receives some funding from the RAF, we are not a recruiting organisation. While some cadets do choose to join the military, the training provided by the RAF is held in high regard by civilian employers too and there is no pressure on cadets to consider a Service career.
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How much time will they have to give each week?
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Typically cadets will attend (Parade) at the Academy once a week (Thursday) for up to 1½ hours a night. However, some evenings, especially during summer month’s cadets may meet for 2-2½ hours. In addition to normal parade evenings, there are many activities to do at weekends and sometimes in the school holidays. The amount of time a cadet wants to commit to is up to them.
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Can they learn to fly?
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Yes, all cadets will have the opportunity to fly at one of the Air Experience Flights. Additionally, cadets can apply for scholarships, which can be used towards a Private Pilot’s Licence! Cadets can learn to become Glider Pilots at 16 – long before they can drive a car!
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Who leads and supervises cadets?
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The CCF at St George’s is run by teaching and support staff from the Academy. Your son/daughter will already know these teachers and may have lessons taught by them.
The Contingent is commanded and run by teachers who are commissioned as RAF Officers and are assisted by other staff who are Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs). They also wear RAF uniform. Staff who may help on a casual basis, act as Civilian Instructors, which means they don’t necessarily wear uniform. All staff are CRB cleared and security vetted by the MOD.
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Why do cadets wear uniform?
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The CCF (RAF) is a military youth organisation affiliated to the Royal Air Force and therefore cadets wear the same uniform as regular RAF personnel.
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What uniforms do cadets wear?
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Cadets wear blue uniform for classroom activities / parades and green uniform for field exercises. Cadets can wear RAF uniform to school on parade days.
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How do cadets obtain uniforms?
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Uniform is issued by the Contingent for the length of time they are a member. Cadets have to purchase items such as shoes or boots but these can be purchased cheaply from military surplus stores. Staff will assist with details of suppliers and stockists.
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What about disabled people - can they join?
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Absolutely! You are very welcome providing you can take part in a reasonable number of activities and as long as your disability does not cause you or anyone else safety problems. The CCF staff will be happy to speak to you about this.
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