From the Contingent Commander
The 2023/24 CCF season was punctuated by the usual fixtures, including this year the Biennial Review in March. I was delighted to welcome Colonel Charles Thomas, County Colonel (Essex) The Royal Anglian Regiment, to review the Contingent as it took part in an inter-section competition, parade – including an impressive Fifth Form Guard of Honour with the support of the School Concert Band, and prize giving. The Contingent did the school proud, the Reviewing Officer subsequently reporting,
“Bancroft’s School CCF is in good hands. I particularly liked the way that senior Cadet NCOs take the lead now, moving on from COVID where the Adults had to have more involvement. This goes back to the ethos of individual development in leadership, at all levels where younger Cadets can identify with the senior (Senior NCO) Cadets and can perhaps aspire to “be there” one day. I saw happy, enthusiastic Cadets having fun, hopefully and (subliminally around the command tasks) taking in their day. I saw Adults also having fun. There was a very satisfactory sense of engagement all round. The support from the Headmaster, representatives of the Governors and the Old Bancroftians Association, revealed an in-depth school family, reminiscent of a Regimental Family.”
Another highlight was Army Camp in July, which provided a balance of military and adventurous training and also a battlefield tour to Normandy. Timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, everyone on the trip gained a useful and fresh perspective on a very important event in our nation’s history.
I am particularly grateful to Mr Pascal and all the CCF staff who continue to volunteer their time weekly and on residential trips. The CCF is an unusual activity, in the level of commitment required of staff to firstly give up time beyond the classroom, but also to attend residential courses to qualify staff to deliver military training including live and blank firing, tackling the obstacle course and much else besides. At a time when MOD resources are under significant pressure the reliance on school staff is ever more important and I am delighted this was recognised when Captain Lucie Coyne was presented with the London District CCF Section Commander of The Year award in recognition of her outstanding service.
Congratulations to all cadets that regularly take part in what the CCF has to offer, from the L4 Recruits through to the Sixth Form NCOs. You each have a very important part to play. Particular thanks and congratulations to the NCOs of 2023/24, led ably by RSM James Hitching who himself received a Deputy Lieutenant’s Certificate from Thomas Chan DL, Representative Deputy Lieutenant for the London Borough of Redbridge, in recognition of his commitment to the CCF. Without the hard work and positive attitude of our NCOs, the CCF would not be the success that it is. I hope you enjoy reading this Cadet review of the year.
Lt Colonel RM Hitching
RSM James Hitching receiving his Deputy Lieutenant’s Certificate.
Captain Lucie Coyne receiving her London District CCF Section Commander of The Year award.
L4 Recruits
Life as a recruit in the CCF RAF Section
The highlight of my life as a recruit was the initial field weekend.
In the initial field weekend, there was first aid which I quite enjoyed. We learnt how to treat different kinds of wounds and how to tie slings and bandages. After that learning we had to go into a small area of a forest to find and treat ‘Injured Victims’ of a helicopter crash. My group did reasonably well, saving all but one.
During this weekend we also did a patrol activity where we learnt different hand signals to halt, form different formations and more. We did a short ‘patrol’ down a road, stopping at several intervals to execute certain commands. We also learnt how to move in different formations and how to change formations on different terrains and in differing situations.
We did command tasks such as the classic river crossing with tyres. This is where you need to cross a gap of a certain length, getting your entire group across using a given number of tyres. You need to communicate well and work as a team to succeed. We did codebreaking. At the beginning we did a bit of history before finding a sentence with a certain key. After this we had to encode our own sentences for others to crack.
However, I think everyone’s favourite activity was sniper stalk. This is where recruits wear ghillie suits and need to sneak up on the defender without getting caught. As you are given 45 minutes to do this, you go really slowly to avoid attracting attention. I went through the thickest undergrowth completely unnoticed but was too slow to reach the final pen in time. While others went quicker, most were caught and no one succeeded in reaching the sniper’s nest in my group.
Erik
Life as a recruit in the CCF Army Section
Life as a L4 recruit in the CCF has been a whirlwind of new experiences, challenges, and unforgettable moments. The journey began with the October field weekend, an event we’ll always remember. We were excited for our first taste of the CCF and it more than lived up to our expectations and gave us a great taster of what was to come.
That weekend was all about teamwork, learning the basics, and getting a taste of what life in the CCF is really like. We mastered the basics of first aid, camouflage, setting up tents and section attack. It was hard work, no doubt, but also incredibly rewarding.
Army Camp was a brilliant experience. Firing blanks brought excitement and realism to our exercises, and visiting Normandy’s historic battlefields was a deeply moving experience. Walking in the footsteps of those who fought there, we gained a profound respect for history. The mix of adventure and reflection made the camp truly special.
What we’ve enjoyed most about being a L4 recruit is pushing ourselves physically and mentally giving us a new aspect of normal school life. These moments taught both of us a lot about resilience, adaptability, and teamwork amongst many other rewardable qualities. And they’ve made us appreciate what it means to be part of the CCF and what it adds to our daily lives.
Of course, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. We had to learn to pack efficiently for Army Camp. Setting up the tents in pouring rain wasn’t exactly straightforward either. But overcoming those challenges is what makes the experience so meaningful and doing it with our friends only adds to this novelty.
Looking back, we’ve grown a lot since joining. The October field weekend feels like it happened ages ago, but it set the tone for everything that’s followed. Being part of the CCF as a L4 recruit has been an amazing experience, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Eddie and Neal
Life as a recruit in the CCF Army Section
As a new recruit, I didn’t really know what to expect; however, it was a lot better than I had anticipated. During the first few weeks, we were taught the basic rules of CCF, and how we were so privileged to be able to have this experience. Many of us didn’t know anything about CCF, me included, but the talks that were given to us by more senior members of the CCF educated us in ways that couldn’t be taught in a classroom.
We were taught how to handle rifles to prepare us for Army Camp. All of us had no prior experience of holding or even using a rifle, therefore we were all slightly baffled when we were told that we would
learn how to clean and use them. Over the course of a few months, we were taught by very patient 6th Form members of the CCF on how to do different drills on them. This was all in preparation for the rifle test – this test was to make sure we were safe to use the rifle during real drills at Army Camp. We were also taught the history of the Army, and Old Bancroftians that were given awards due to their bravery. An example of this is Lieutenant Colonel Augustus Charles Newman VC. This knowledge helped inspire us when practicing drills for ambushing the enemy.
One of the highlights of being a recruit in the L4 was our first Army Camp experience. This was an extraordinary trip that was unlike any other school trip. We did obstacle courses, blank firing and much more; we even went to Normandy for a few days! This was incredible and a very memorable trip that I am looking forward to in the future.
Being a recruit in L4 was a wonderful experience that gave me a different perspective on our present. We learned so much without being in a classroom and were given opportunities that many people will never be able to experience. Thank you to all the staff and Mr Hitching and Mr Pascal for making the first year of CCF as enjoyable and memorable as possible and thank you to the 6th Form members who were able to teach us many different aspects of being part of the CCF.
Jocelyn
Fifth Form Army Section
Life in the CCF as a fifth former has been an unforgettable experience, with key highlights including the CFIT course, our visit to the shooting range and the unparalleled Guard of Honour training.
As Fifth Formers, we began our training in preparation of teaching the future L4th and U4th cadets in the various skills unique to the CCF. The CFIT course was completed over a number of weeks, during which we were taught specific teaching methods which we must utilise further on. Despite the authoritative nature of CCF, we had many laughs while watching each other attempt to perform the “log roll” and so called “monkey crawl” when learning methods of movement. Following this, we were assessed during the lessons we conducted and were rewarded with the CFIT certificate and the rank of Lance Corporal.
A major yearly event for Fifth Formers and above is the trip to the shooting range during the October Field Weekend. This was one of my favourite experiences as for all cadets one of the main motivations for joining the CCF is the opportunity to handle a rifle. Initially, although we felt apprehensive about handling a rifle, as competitivity rose we became more at ease and our desire to win intensified. A definite driving factor was Mr Pascal’s promise to perform push ups if we achieved the perfect score of 20/20. Unfortunately, no one achieved this and Mr Pascal remains undefeated.
This year we also had our Biennial Review which involved the Fifth Form performing the Guard of Honour. The training process was rigorous with many faces being subjected (accidentally) to the butt of the rifle as we learnt the specific manoeuvres. Overall, it was an enjoyable and unique experience while being a great privilege as not every Fifth Form cohort is able to experience this. It was exciting to utilise the rifles ceremonially compared to the Field Weekend and helped us to feel like a key part of the Bancroft’s CCF.
Overall, CCF as a Fifth Former has been incomparable and provided a much-needed escape from our external academic commitments.
RAF Section
CCF is one of those clubs that can be considered as a proper club. It’s fun, structured for maximum enjoyment and provides an abundance of opportunity for honing and implementing important life skills, such as leadership, communication, teamwork and self-sufficiency.
The CCF is split into two sections: the Army section and the RAF. My section, the RAF, focuses more on the aviation-side of the CCF. Although we’re still submitted to the punishment that is drill for most of the first half-term in preparation for the services, the fun parts aren’t slept on. The RAF section takes part in various thought-inducing activities including designing and building model aircraft, partaking in aircraft and RAF history related quizzes, and problem-solving activities.
Infinitely more exciting than the activities of Tuesday evening, the camps, field days and flight days are great. As a Fifth Former I had the pleasure of attending multiple field days, one of which was at Harlow activity centre. The day mostly consisted of completing tasks and training exercises in groups, such as climbing, paddle boarding and crate-stacking. Although most of us managed to stay dry, the warm weather quickly dried any victims of the freezing canal.
Another of our field trips was spent at RAF Wittering. We had the pleasure of touring an active RAF base and talking to many of the personnel. The best part, perhaps, was the end where we had the privilege of touring a hanger holding many generations of what came to be known as the Harrier jump jet. It was by far the highlight of the entire trip, beaten only by the two-hour-long journey back to Bancroft’s on a bus way too spacious and comfortable for our tiny section.
We also visited a nuclear bunker, located near the RAF’s wartime headquarters at RAF High Wycombe. Walking around the palace-sized building and learning about the rich history of the RAF was extremely interesting. The giant gate-guardian Hurricane at the front of the building was the cherry on top.
Sareena
A selection of Fifth Formers and U4th went back to RAF Wittering later on in the year for a separate reason, and again, I was lucky enough to have had the opportunity to return. The RAF offers flying sessions in light aircraft, Grob Tutors, and this was the reason I joined the CCF in the first place. Sitting in the co-pilot’s seat and having the opportunity to control the plane as it dives, loops, banks and rolls, all whilst wearing aviator sunglasses... it feels like a scene out of Top Gun. The opportunity to fly with the RAF is the best experience I have had with the CCF to date.
Riyaan
RAF Flight Simulator
In regular RAF sessions on Tuesdays, when we are not doing a group activity, we often go down to the CCF stores to have a go on the school’s own flight simulator.
The flight simulator is a seated rig with a screen, pedals, a joystick and levers which all simulate a real pilot in an aircraft and it allows practicing how to take off the runway and making a smooth landing. Although we have to take turns, it is an amazing learning experience and gives us an idea of how a real pilot views their way of flying. Overall, the flight simulator is an awesome experience and an excellent learning tool for us in the RAF Cadets.
Sanaya
Contingent Events in 2023/24
Remembrance Day 2023
In the CCF annual calendar, Remembrance Day is always at the heart. It is an important and thought-provoking occasion where the community is drawn together to remember the sacrifice of others for our modern-day liberties. The CCF is integral to this event.
Rehearsals begin months before as the Sixth Form are tasked with the momentous goal of getting the L4 up to scratch on their drill before the big day – usually into the dusk on cold autumn evenings. This year, I was honored to be given the role of flag bearer for the King’s Colour. It involved leading the procession down the road and into the Quad behind the Colour Sergeant, and later lowering the flag to half-mast during the two minute’s silence. There are also some, more particular, drill aspects to remember that come with the role (most crucial is not to hit the flag on an archway). For the L4, the most challenging part is always the two minutes of complete stillness during the silence which we practice with them leading up to the big event.
It is inspiring seeing the community come together on such an occasion – rain or shine – and the turnout this year was particularly impressive. Remembrance Day serves as a chance for everyone to show respect to all those (Bancroftians and non-Bancroftians) that have been tragically lost in warfare. Lest we forget.
Olivia
Biennial Review
On the 19th of March 2024, we participated in the Biennial Review which involved a variety of fun and challenging activities that tested our skills and also improved our teamwork throughout the day.
Our team excelled on the shooting range exercise and scored a high number of points collectively as a group by individually shooting small targets using bb pellets. Team building activities allowed us to communicate together as a group to find the most efficient and easiest plan together that would complete the tasks to our strengths.
On the sniper stalk activity our task was to identify camouflaged objects along a path without the ability to speak to one another so we had to point and tap to make everyone aware of the surroundings and had identified the location of each object. This tested our communication skills and showed us how to be patient with each other. The weapons handling stand dealt with our knowledge and what we had learnt from CCF. We answered all questions about the rifle, reminding us of the importance of how to handle the weapon safely and securely. For the drill stand, we made a routine from a given set of movements to do as a group. This was assessed on the neatness and creativity of the sequence. The Section Commander shouted instructions clearly and they were executed well by the cadets.
In archery, many of the younger cadets in the group struggled with how to use the bow and arrow which slowed us down slightly however we overcame this by helping one another and tried doing the best we could. Another task was to build a tripod as part of
a command task. A few of us were set aside who were already experienced in pioneering before which allowed the less experienced cadets to have a go and work together in this task. We learnt from this that it would have been best to give out individual parts to work on instead of building it all at once. Our final activity was the rockets which was extremely fun but wasn’t our strong point. The aim was to shoot rockets high into the air with the objective of it landing on a target. We learnt it would have been better to have observed each other to see what worked best to gain the most points.
To conclude the Biennial Review, the Fifth Form Army Section paraded as a Guard of Honour. This included having to wear formal dress and conducting rifle drill that had taken us two months to learn. We enjoyed this very much, despite the weapon being quite heavy throughout, as it was a chance to express our true joy of being part of the CCF.
Overall, the entire day was very enjoyable and allowed everyone to get involved and work as a team. The day truly showed what it is to be a cadet.
Zaina & Jessica
Army Section Events
June Field Day
On the 17th of June, the Army section of the CCF went to St Martin’s Plain Camp for a field day. We took part in four different activities, identifying and locating enemies, conducting section attacks, team sports, and the DCCT (Dismounted Close Combat Trainer), which is a computerised ‘live’ firing range.
We were all given laser guns, in order to recreate an accurate section attack across a set area. With our groups we set off, using military tactics such as providing covering fire as half of the group pepperpotted closer to the enemy, eventually securing their position. This activity, as well as the identifying enemies stand, proved to be very fun and acted as an exciting way to put the skills we learnt at school into practice. After a well-deserved lunch, many of us moved onto playing some team sports. We were split into teams, and played both volleyball and rugby, which were both extremely enjoyable and helped us get active, moving around and in a more competitive mood.
The DCCT, like previous years, is always the highlight of the day, a facility that is great for honing firing skills indoors rather than on a live range. The activity was enjoyed by the older cadets who had built up skill over the years and had returned to beat their personal records, as well as the younger cadets, who did a great job on their first tries.
‘The DCCT is always the highlight of the day, a facility that is great for honing firing skills...’
A huge thanks is needed for all the members of staff who helped supervise, and lead the activities, and also to everyone who played a part in organising this very entertaining field day for everyone in the Army Section of the CCF.
Martin
Army Camp
On 7-14 of July, members of the Army Section attended Army Camp. On the first day, we stayed in school to go over infantry skills to be prepared for the week ahead; we did field drills and learned lots of new skills on ambushes and how to identify an enemy.
On the 8th of July, we travelled to Kent. We took part in a variety of different activities, including blank firing exercises and ambushes. These drills were incredibly fun; they were tough and physically challenging, but it was all worth it after I realised what I had achieved. Along with these activities, we also learnt how to cook our food in ration packs, and how important it was to get our nutrition throughout the day.
On the first night, we slept under the stars by making our own shelters with tarpaulin and bungee cords. Under the careful supervision of more experienced members of the CCF, we were able to stay warm and dry through the night’s rain. After the fun few days, we had our fair share of cleaning up to do. We learned how to clean the rifles and how important it was to do it properly. Although the process was long, we were able to share stories and experiences with the new friends we had made, which made the cleaning experience unusually fun.
On the 11th of July, we had adventure training in Ware. We were split into groups and took part in four different activities, including climbing, obstacle courses and high ropes. This helped us connect with other people and improve our teamwork, while having lots of fun.
One of the highlights of Army Camp was going to France for the Normandy battlefield tour from the 12th-14th of July. We stayed in a hotel right next to the beach – the view was beautiful and there was a fair near our hotel, where we played games (one including a rifle game). We visited many memorials like the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial. This was a very sentimental event where we learnt
how much people had to sacrifice for our present and future. We also visited many museums to learn the history of WW2. This taught us how grateful we should be and how tough life was during those times.
Overall, we all had a really enjoyable time, and enjoyed all the activities that were planned for us. This was my first Army Camp, and I did not expect how incredible it would be. We are all definitely looking forward to next year’s Army Camp. Thank you to Mr Hitching and Mr Pascal and all the staff for giving up their time to supervise us and making this trip the enjoyable experience it was.
Jocelyn
CCF Adventurous Training 2025 –U4th Cadet Report
From the 29th of March to the 4th of April, members of the CCF took part in Adventurous Training in the Lake District. Throughout the trip, we stayed in very comfortable accommodation, surrounded by beautiful views and treated to delicious food.
Our adventure began the moment we arrived. Before even reaching the campsite, we had to row across the lake – despite the heavy rain! It was a wet and wild start, but the experience was incredibly fun and set the tone for the week ahead.
The following day, my group went caving. At first, the idea of going underground was quite intimidating. However, once inside, I quickly felt more comfortable and started to enjoy the sense of exploration. As we crawled and climbed deeper into the cave, we encountered various obstacles like the infamous “cheese press” and deep pools of water. What seemed scary at first turned out to be one of the most exciting parts of the trip.
My personal highlight, though, was gorge walking. It was physically demanding, especially when scrambling through the rocky terrain and climbing what I can only describe as a slippery waterfall. The climb was nearly vertical at times and definitely tested our nerves, but the feeling of achievement at the top – and the memories captured in photos – made it all worth it.
On the penultimate day, we tackled a ropes course and climbing wall. These activities pushed us out of our comfort zones, both mentally and physically. We had to work in pairs to balance across ropes, learning valuable teamwork and persistence. Even when we stumbled or fell, we were encouraged to keep going and support one another.
Overall, the week was an unforgettable experience. We enjoyed every activity and truly appreciated the effort that went into planning such a fantastic trip. This was my first time doing Adventurous Training, and it far exceeded my expectations. We’re already looking forward to next year’s adventure!
A huge thank you to all the staff who gave up their time to supervise and support us — you made this trip the incredible experience it was.
Arya
We enjoyed every activity and truly appreciated the effort that went into planning such a fantastic trip.
RSM’s Review
The final year of the CCF for me has certainly been a highlight of my U6 year. From the October Field Weekend to Army Camp they have all provided memorable moments. When I was asked if I would be willing to take on the role of RSM, I was honoured as it was a role that I had coveted since joining as a recruit.
The year began with the annual recruitment of the L4th. I am pleased to say that we have had over 70 new recruits join. We began preparations for Remembrance Day straight away with the new recruits beginning to get their heads around basic drill. Interrupting this was the October Field Weekend, where the recruits experienced an introduction to weapon handling, fieldcraft and other activities.
I’m pleased to report that the 5th-U6 shooting was accurate with a range day on the Monday proving who the best shots were. Pas thought otherwise as he said he would do 50 press ups if someone didn’t miss a shot. With this in mind the RSM landed all shots in a row, sadly bar the final one. Pas was relieved. After this it was back to drill in preparation for Remembrance Day. With the weather holding it was a fittingly dignified occasion, with the highest standards of drill on display from the L4th to the U6th.
Towards the end of the spring term, it was time for the Biennial Review of the CCF. The Contingent took part in activities ranging from shooting on a range to a drill challenge and archery tag. After the day’s activities there was a formal parade, where the reviewing officer Colonel Charles Thomas inspected the Guard of Honour, that consisted of
‘After this it was back to drill in preparation for Remembrance Day. With the weather holding it was a fittingly dignified occasion, with the highest standards of drill on display from the L4th to the U6th.’
the 5th Form and was ably led by CSM Kaitlin Lovell. The Colonel was impressed by the parade and the level of the drill.
After that my attendance at the weekly sessions sadly had to decline due to the onset of my A-level exams. Despite this I am pleased to note that the L6 ably rose to the challenge of continuing to instruct the L4 and U4 in weapon handling as well as introducing them to fieldcraft. I am pleased to say that I was able to come back for one more Tuesday session, where I was presented a Deputy Lieutenant’s Certificate, by Redbridge Borough Deputy Lieutenant Chan, for services to the CCF in London. This award would not have been possible without the kind nomination of myself by Captain Coyne.
Due to my exams finishing earlier than is typical I was able to attend this year’s June field day. This was a large success with cadets taking part in a range of activities from section attacks, with lasers, to firing on the DCCT. The day was a success and was a highlight for the term time CCF to end on.
For the rest of us Army Camp neared. The week began with a basic infantry skills refresher for the Section. The next day we travelled down to SMP to begin operations against the PMG. All sections and cadets conducted themselves in exemplary manner, but despite this they were unable to fully defeat the PMG, who will return. A lower key but no less fun day followed at The Edge Outdoors. We enjoyed activities from the assault course – with a healthy competition ensuing, to high ropes. Next off it was to Normandy and an early start to make our train crossing. Normandy was certainly a highlight of the week as it was interesting to learn about Pegasus Bridge and to fully appreciate the sacrifices that had been made for our freedom. On a lighter note I’m sure everyone on the bus appreciated being serenaded by the 5th Form throughout the week.
All of the events that occurred throughout the year would not have been possible without the CCF staff. For this, I would like to thank all the CCF staff
Lt Faiers @Bobby’s Brasserie
‘All of the events that occurred throughout the year would not have been possible without the CCF staff...’
for their commitment and dedication to helping us have such a great time throughout this year and all years. Particular thanks to Lt. Col Hitching, Capt. Coyne and WOII Pascal. I would also like to thank the L6 NCOs who stepped up to support the U6th. The U6th who remained I would like to thank, Sgt. Stephen Lee for his efforts leading the RAF Section, CSgt Nishant Ganesh and CSM Kaitlin Lovell for all of their help and support over the past year in the Army Section. Lastly, I would like to wish the new RSM and CSM good luck for the year ahead.
James
