Combined Cadet Force

The Combined Cadet Force (or CCF) is a national voluntary youth organisation designed to develop students’ transferable skills and qualities which will benefit them in life after school. The Ratcliffe College CCF can trace its origins as far back as the late nineteenth century. Initially created as an Officer Training Corps, it stayed as such until 1940 when the name changed to the Junior Training Corps and Air Training Corps. In 1954 the name changed again to what it is now: The CCF. There have been eight Contingent Commanders and twelve School Staff Instructors in the 125 years of it’s evolution. The school has a fine military heritage which boasts many senior serving and retired officers in all three services.

AIM OF RATCLIFFE COLLEGE CCF

The aim of the CCF is to provide cadets with the opportunity to develop self-discipline and a sense of responsibility; improve self-reliance, endurance and resourcefulness through active participation in numerous activities and encourage them to persevere in all tasks often in difficult conditions, in order to develop their leadership and other transferable skills.

CORE VALUES

The CCF has a good reputation within the school based largely on its spirit, and on the high standards of professionalism, behaviour and self discipline that the cadets consistently display. We depend on team work, which comes from demanding training, strong leadership, comradeship and trust. Such trust can only exist on the basis of shared values, the maintenance of high standards, and the personal commitment of every individual to the task, the team and the organisation. Every adult and cadet within the CCF has a duty to develop such trust and to uphold the core values shown below:

• Selfless Commitment
• Courage (physical and moral)
• Discipline
• Integrity
• Loyalty
• Respect for Other

THREE PILLARS

The three pillars on which we build a successful CCF are:

• Sound Administration
• Effective Training
• Inspiring Leadership

EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Everyone in the CCF is treated fairly. We recognize that everyone is unique and respect differences. We aim to give all cadets the opportunity to develop their abilities fully, whilst emphasizing their responsibility to others and the Corps. We expect all our cadets to operate as members of a close-knit community, where trust, cohesion and teamwork are decisive factors in our success. We rely on leadership at all levels and the effective contribution of every cadet to achieve this.

FURTHER INFORMATION

For further details of service within the CCF please open our CCF Handbook HERE.  This covers the following topics:

Enrolment, Commitment and Leaving the CCF

Terms and Conditions of Service (including Expectations and Standards)

Training and Routine

Opportunities, Courses and Events

Costs

Benefits

CCF Contact Details

Further information can also be obtained from the National CCF website HERE