Combined Cadet Force
Sherborne’s CCF is a thriving, tri-service contingent that develops leadership, teamwork, confidence and personal discipline.
Open from the Fourth Form to boys and Sherborne Girls, cadets train across three sections: Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army. The programme includes weekly training, termly field days, and summer camps – both in the UK and overseas. Highlights include glacier walking in Norway, mountain biking in Transylvania, and joint exercises with Sherborne Girls.
The CCF is built on the following key values:
- Courage
- Discipline
- Integrity
- Selfless Commitment
- Loyalty, Respect
- Humility
- Determination
- Cheerfulness
The CCF seeks to:
- Develop personal responsibility, self-reliance, and resilience.
- Encourage leadership and teamwork.
- Promote citizenship and community awareness.
- Provide insight into the Armed Forces and public service.
Open to all...
Participation in the CCF is open to students of all backgrounds and career ambitions (there is no obligation to join the Armed Forces after leaving the CCF). Cadets take part in a varied programme that includes:
- Leadership and teamwork training
- Fieldcraft and outdoor activities
- Adventure training and expeditions
- First aid and life-saving skills
- Drill and ceremonial events
- Shooting and marksmanship (conducted safely and under strict supervision)
After joining Sherborne and hearing stories about the CCF from my older brother, I knew I wanted to join The Royal Marines section when I reached the Fourth Form. One of my main goals at Sherborne was to make the most of all the School had to offer. Balancing this ambition with CCF was challenging at times, but the rewards from both the CCF and the School's extra-curricular programme made it all worthwhile.
Henry cole, former sixth form pupil, head of ccf
Opportunities...
Cadets may also have the opportunity to attend camps, competitions, and courses alongside other CCF contingents and cadet organisations. These include:
- National Field Gun Competition
- Pringle Trophy
- Rifles Cadet Cup
- Parachuting
Each section delivers training aligned with its service, while sharing the same core values and standards.Through the CCF, cadets have the opportunity to:
- Build confidence and self-discipline.
- Gain nationally recognised qualifications
- Develop leadership and communication skills.
- Make lasting friendships.
- Enhance university, apprenticeship, and employment applications.
The CCF is more than just an activity – it’s a transformative experience that instils resilience, camaraderie, and lifelong values.
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