Combined Cadet Force (CCF)

The Combined Cadet Force is a national voluntary youth organisation.  It is sponsored by the Army and provides challenging military, adventurous and community activities.  Its aim is to inspire young people to achieve success in life with a spirit of service to the Queen, their Country and their local community, and to develop in them the qualities of a good citizen. 

The Ratcliffe College CCF develops young people physically and mentally, improving self-confidence, teamwork, friendship and leadership.  It welcomes cadets of all abilities and backgrounds that are able to access the majority of its activities.  It also aims to develop a sense of community in its cadets. 

The Ratcliffe College CCF provides a wide diversity of fun, exciting and adventurous opportunities, and it is a gateway to recognised vocational qualifications, from the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to BTEC First Diplomas, which can help in working and school life. 

The Ratcliffe College CCF achieves the aspirations of the above through:  

• Weekly parades – on a Tuesday afternoon;
• At least one field training weekend a term,for the Army section;
• Easter Adventure Training Camp;
• Various opportunities for the RAF cadets to go flying;
• A number of leadership courses available to cadets;
• Many adventure training courses;
• Cadet enrolment on the CVQOBTEC in Teamwork and Personal Development in the community;  
• A summer camp for both sections.

What our cadets at Ratcliffe get out of the CCF:  

• Fun!
• Challenging opportunities;
• Leadership opportunities;
• Confidence;
• Exposure to new activities;
• Discipline;
• Development of self-confidence;
• Development of team spirit;
• Many subject areas are suitable for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award;
• Completion of a BTECLevel 2 Award.