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CELT Combined Cadet Force

CELT Combined Cadet Force

To Inspire to Achieve

Developing leadership, resilience, confidence and teamwork through challenge, adventure and service.

Leadership Through Responsibility

Cadets learn to lead by example, support others and take ownership of their actions. Through structured activities and practical challenges, students develop confidence, communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Training & Development

Cadets participate in a varied programme of training including drill, fieldcraft, first aid, navigation, teamwork exercises and personal development opportunities. Every activity is designed to build skills that are valuable both in school and beyond.

Challenge & Adventure

From outdoor expeditions and navigation exercises to adventurous training activities, cadets are encouraged to step outside their comfort zone, develop resilience and discover what they are capable of achieving.

Opportunities For All

The CCF offers opportunities to gain nationally recognised qualifications, attend camps, take part in competitions, represent the school and develop lifelong friendships while making lasting memories.

Bringing Our Values to Life

At Brannel School, our values of engineering excellence, creating community and capturing creativity are woven through everything we do. They guide every lesson, every opportunity, and every expectation.

We believe in high standards, strong support, and bold ambitions. We are so proud to introduce our Combined Cadet Force (CCF): an impactful addition to school life and a living embodiment of our school ethos.

“To Inspire to Achieve”

The CCF isn’t about military recruitment. It’s about leadership through service, resilience through challenge, and character through discipline. It’s about real responsibility, personal growth, and friendships rooted in loyalty and a shared commitment to something bigger than ourselves.

This is how we bring our values to life — by expanding horizons, breaking down barriers, and giving every student access to opportunities once reserved for the privileged few. Every young person deserves the opportunity to be the best they can be.

Leading the Way

As part of the Department for Education’s Cadet Expansion Programme, Brannel School is proud to be leading the way nationally in building an inclusive, values-led model for the cadet experience in UK state schools.

We can’t wait to see where this journey takes us, together.

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Few things are more powerful than seeing young people rise to a challenge not because of where they come from, but because of who they choose to be.
Elizabeth Fletcher Serjeant Instructor

Cadet Journey

Your Journey Starts Here

Every cadet begins somewhere. Through challenge, teamwork and opportunity, students develop confidence, leadership and skills that last a lifetime.

01

Join the CCF

Meet new people, learn about the organisation and begin your cadet journey.

02

Cadet Training

Develop confidence through drill, fieldcraft, teamwork, navigation and first aid.

03

Skills & Qualifications

Gain recognised qualifications and practical life skills through structured training opportunities.

04

Adventure & Camps

Participate in camps, expeditions and outdoor experiences that challenge and inspire.

05

Leadership Roles

Support younger cadets, lead activities and develop responsibility and resilience.

06

Future Success

Take forward the confidence, teamwork and leadership skills developed through your cadet experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About Joining CCF

Find answers to some of the most common questions from students, parents and carers about the Brannel School Combined Cadet Force.

Students are eligible to join the CCF from Year 8. Year 7 students will be offered taster sessions during the Summer Term, with forms sent home for parents and carers to sign if they are interested in joining.

No. The CCF is not a military recruitment programme. It is about developing confidence, resilience, leadership, teamwork and character through structured, military-themed activities.

Joining the CELT CCF programme is completely free. There is no joining fee or subscription charge. Some optional enrichment activities, camps or training weekends may have a small cost, but support is available and no child will be excluded for financial reasons.

Yes. Essential cadet uniform items are provided free of charge or loaned to cadets, depending on the service section. Cadets are expected to take care of their kit and return loaned items in good condition.

Cadets are expected to attend weekly parades and training sessions, wear their uniform smartly, uphold the standards of the contingent, take part positively, and participate in key training days or occasional weekend activities where possible.

Cadets can take part in activities such as fieldcraft, navigation, first aid, adventurous training, leadership tasks, camps, competitions, teamwork challenges and service-specific opportunities.

Yes. Brannel School is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where cadets from all backgrounds, abilities and experiences feel valued, respected and supported.

Digital Prospectus

Explore the Brannel School CCF Prospectus

Discover everything the CELT Combined Cadet Force has to offer, from leadership and adventurous training to qualifications, camps and future opportunities.

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