Cadets from the Army Section arrived at CCF HQ at 0800hrs on Saturday 11 April, ready to embark on Easter Camp 2026. Having completed kit issue and packing the previous evening, the contingent was able to depart swiftly for Gibraltar Barracks.

For A Troop (Year 9), this was Exercise First Night, marking their first experience of sleeping in the field. Meanwhile, B Troop (Cadets to Corporals) would spend the weekend engaging enemy positions as part of an evolving tactical mission.

On arrival, training began immediately. B Troop refreshed their camouflage and concealment skills, applying cam cream and using natural materials to blend into the environment. At the same time, A Troop received instruction on field cooking before preparing their lunch.

Following lunch, B Troop bombed up, split into Sections 1 and 2 and moved out to their first RV. A Troop practised fire and manoeuvre techniques, including leapfrogging and caterpillar movements, before putting these skills into action during a paintball activity.

B Troop then undertook a series of tactical scenarios, including recovering intelligence from a simulated airdrop and dealing with casualties during an ambush. Meanwhile, A Troop completed an observation exercise, learning how to describe people and vehicles using the SCRIM and A-H reporting methods.

Later in the day, A Troop received instruction from Captain Quick on establishing a harbour area before creating their own and settling in for the night with ration pack dinners. B Troop also established a harbour, this time under assessment by SSgt Wickes as part of their 2-Star Fieldcraft qualification. Throughout the night, cadets rotated through one-hour sentry shifts to maintain security.

The following morning, cadets packed away their harbour areas, cooked breakfast and prepared for a deliberate attack. After receiving orders and conducting final battle preparations, B Troop executed the attack, with Section 1 providing fire support while Section 2 assaulted using a right-flank attack. Following the fight through and casualty simulation, both sections conducted a tactical withdrawal to the Emergency Rendezvous (ERV).

While this took place, A Troop completed a stalk exercise, applying the camouflage and concealment techniques they had learned throughout the weekend. There were some impressive displays of fieldcraft, with more than a few “moving bushes” spotted across the training area.

Following a debrief and lunch, the contingent returned to CCF HQ for weapon cleaning, kit return and final parade, where lots of awards and promotions were handed out. After a demanding and rewarding weekend in the field, cadets headed home before returning the next morning for the final phase of camp.

At 0800hrs the following day, cadets assembled once again at CCF HQ, this time in civvies and ready for a day of adventure training at Surrey Outdoor Learning and Development Centre.

After arriving, cadets split into four groups and tackled a variety of climbing challenges, including abseiling, climbing games and a range of climbing walls. Following lunch, the afternoon was spent on the high ropes course, where cadets took part in crate stacking, Jacob’s Ladder, a trapeze jump, climbing ladders and the ever-popular “Bum Wars”.

The day provided plenty of opportunities to develop confidence, resilience and teamwork, while also pushing personal boundaries. Filled with laughter, encouragement and achievement, it proved a fitting conclusion to Easter Camp 2026. Tired but proud of everything they had accomplished, cadets returned home with new skills, increased confidence and lasting memories.

Written by: Corporal Goossens