Co-Curricular Highlight
From 25th to 27th March 2026, Year 9 & 10 cadets will be heading out to STANTA Training Area for this year’s Exercise Arduis Start, an exciting two‑night field training experience designed to build confidence, teamwork and outdoor skills in a challenging but enjoyable environment.
During the three‑day programme, cadets will take part in a wide range of hands‑on activities, including fieldcraft, navigation, signals, campcraft, and Skill at Arms lessons. They will learn how to set up shelters, cook and live outdoors, move tactically, read maps, work as a team and take part in realistic training scenarios that bring all their new skills together.
For Year 9, Ex Arduis Start is also a key proving ground for the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. Cadets will be holistically assessed on the skills required to successfully complete their Assessed Expedition later in the year.
For Year 10, their experience is tailored to advance their fieldcraft with scenario‑based missions, where cadets establish a patrol base, complete reconnaissance tasks and take part in a carefully structured “ambush” using blank ammunition.
Exercise Arduis Start remains one of the most memorable and rewarding moments in many cadets’ CCF journeys. It inspires confidence, strengthens friendships and helps pupils develop independence, resilience and practical skills they will use throughout their cadet experience and beyond.
