Combined Cadet Force

A Welcome from the Contingent Commender

The Stonyhurst CCF develops confident, resilient and capable young people through challenge, teamwork and leadership.

Our cadets are given opportunities to step beyond their comfort zones, whether through field exercises, adventurous training, competitions or leadership roles within the Contingent. Along the way, they build confidence, learn to take responsibility and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

Open to pupils from Lower Grammar, the CCF provides opportunities to build confidence, leadership and resilience in a supportive and challenging environment. The skills and values developed through the programme benefit pupils long after they leave Stonyhurst, whatever path they choose to follow.

I am immensely proud of what our cadets achieve and the positive contribution they make to the wider College community. I hope this website gives you an insight into the opportunities, experiences and lifelong memories that make the Stonyhurst CCF such a rewarding part of College life.

Captain Michael Jones

Contingent Commander

Stonyhurst College CCF

About the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) at Stonyhurst College

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is one of the largest and most established co-curricular activities at Stonyhurst College, offering pupils a unique blend of leadership development, adventure and personal challenge.

Open to pupils from Lower Grammar onwards, the CCF offers a varied programme of weekly training, field exercises, adventurous activities, competitions and annual camps. Cadets are encouraged to challenge themselves, take responsibility and develop practical skills while working as part of a team.

As an Army Section CCF, Stonyhurst cadets participate in activities such as fieldcraft, navigation, drill, leadership training, shooting and adventure training. Senior cadets are given opportunities to lead and mentor younger pupils, developing the confidence, character and sense of responsibility that are hallmarks of a Stonyhurst education.

While supported by the Ministry of Defence and operating within the wider Cadet Forces framework, the Stonyhurst CCF is firmly focused on personal development. Whether pupils go on to careers in the Armed Forces, business, education or any other profession, the experiences gained through the CCF equip them with skills and values that will benefit them throughout their lives.

A Proud History of the CCF at Stonyhurst College

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) at Stonyhurst College is deeply rooted in the traditions of service, leadership, and national contribution. Stonyhurst's Cadet Corps officially mustered for the first time on 16 October 1900 in the Ambulacrum, beginning a proud legacy that continues to this day.

The wider Cadet movement dates back to 1860, when cadet units formed part of the Volunteer Force. Throughout its history, the Stonyhurst Cadet Corps has played an important role in college life, developing generations of young people through challenge, responsibility and service.

Today, the Stonyhurst CCF remains one of the College's most enduring and valued co-curricular activities, building upon more than a century of tradition and achievement.

Mission and Purpose of CCF

The Mission and Purpose of the CCF

The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) provides pupils with opportunities to develop leadership, confidence, resilience and a sense of service through a structured programme of military-themed training and adventurous activities.

In line with the Ministry of Defence's aims for the CCF, the programme encourages cadets to take responsibility, work effectively as part of a team and develop the self-discipline, perseverance and self-reliance that will benefit them throughout their lives.

The CCF at Stonyhurst aims to:

• Develop leadership skills and personal responsibility through practical training and experience.

• Build confidence, resilience, teamwork and effective communication.

• Provide an understanding of the role, values and traditions of the UK Armed Forces.

• Encourage service to others and active participation within the wider community.

• Offer challenging and rewarding opportunities through fieldcraft, adventure training, competitions, camps and leadership exercises.

• Support those who may be considering a future career in the Armed Forces, while providing valuable life skills for all cadets regardless of their future aspirations.

The skills and values gained through the CCF complement the wider educational experience at Stonyhurst, helping pupils become capable, confident and compassionate leaders.

Formation of the Stonyhurst College Cadet Corps

The Stonyhurst College Cadet Corps officially paraded for the first time in the Ambulacrum on 16 October 1900, marking the beginning of a proud tradition that continues to this day. Responsibility for military training was placed under the supervision of the First Volunteer Battalion of the East Lancashire Regiment, acting on behalf of the War Office.

In its early years, cadets received instruction in drill and musketry from experienced non-commissioned officers of the Regiment. The Corps quickly established a reputation for high standards of discipline and training, becoming an important part of College life.

The original cadet uniform consisted of scarlet tunics with white piping and slouch hats, reflecting the military fashions of the time. This was later replaced by khaki service dress, and by the eve of the First World War the Corps wore the standard British Army uniform.

The Cadet Corps was honoured to represent Stonyhurst at national events, including the Coronation celebrations of 1910 and the Royal Review at Windsor in 1911. These early achievements helped establish the strong traditions of service, leadership and commitment that remain at the heart of the Stonyhurst CCF today.

Stonyhurst and the World Wars

Service and Sacrifice: The CCF Through the World Wars

The First World War (1914–1918)

Throughout the Great War, cadet training continued steadily with a focus on musketry, drill, and tactics. Many senior pupils were commissioned directly from school or attended military academies such as Sandhurst or Woolwich.

160 Old Stonyhurst pupils gave their lives during WWI.
Stonyhurst’s record of military awards is remarkable for a school of its size.

Victoria Cross recipients:

Lt. Maurice James Dease V.C. – Mons, Belgium (1914)
Capt. John Aiden Liddell V.C. – Ostend, Belgium (1915)
2nd Lt. George Gabriel Coury V.C. – Guillemont, Somme (1916)

Other WWI honours include:

30 Distinguished Service Orders
77 Military Crosses
4 Distinguished Flying Crosses
2 Air Force Crosses

The Second World War (1939–1945)

Cadet training and camps continued until the outbreak of WWII. Many senior boys went directly into service. The Stonyhurst War Record 1939–45 honours all who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

101 pupils gave their lives during WWII.

Victoria Cross recipients:

Capt. Harold Marcus Ervine Andrews V.C. – Dunkirk (1940)
Capt. James Joseph Bernard Jackman V.C. – Ed Duda, Tobruk (1941)

Other WWII awards:

12 Distinguished Service Orders
8 Distinguished Service Crosses (including one with Bar)
32 Military Crosses
9 Distinguished Flying Crosses
4 Croix de Guerre (including one with Palm)
1 Air Force Cross

Additionally, two Old Stonyhurst boys were awarded the Victoria Cross before WWI:

Lt. Edmund William Costello V.C. – Matakand, India (1897)
Capt. Paul Aloysius Kenna V.C. – Khartoum, Sudan (1898)

The CCF Experience at Stonyhurst College

At Stonyhurst, the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) plays a central role in developing young leaders of character, instilling values such as service, resilience, and teamwork. Supported by the dedication of staff and close links with the Armed Services, Stonyhurst cadets benefit from a rich programme of training, field experience, and access to Ministry of Defence-sponsored opportunities across the UK.

Structure and Training

The Combined Cadet Force at Stonyhurst is an integral part of College life, providing pupils with opportunities to develop leadership, resilience, teamwork and self-discipline through a varied programme of military-themed and adventurous training.

Pupils are enrolled into the CCF in Lower Grammar and progress through a structured training programme that develops both practical skills and personal responsibility. Early training focuses on core military skills such as drill, navigation, fieldcraft, campcraft and map reading, while more experienced cadets take on increasing levels of responsibility and leadership within the Contingent.

Weekly parades are held throughout term time, complemented by field training exercises, adventure training, shooting, competitions, camps and Ministry of Defence-sponsored courses. These activities provide cadets with opportunities to challenge themselves, work as part of a team and develop confidence in unfamiliar environments.

Senior cadets play a vital role in mentoring younger pupils and supporting the delivery of training. Each platoon is led by a Cadet Under Officer (Rhetoric), supported by a Platoon Sergeant and Corporals, providing valuable leadership experience and helping to maintain the strong traditions of the Stonyhurst CCF.

Whether or not pupils intend to pursue a military career, the skills and qualities developed through the CCF; leadership, communication, responsibility, perseverance and service to others, prepare them for success both within and beyond Stonyhurst.

CCF Camps

CCF Camps

Annual CCF Camps

CCF camps are a highlight of the Stonyhurst CCF programme, providing cadets with opportunities to put their training into practice while developing confidence, leadership and teamwork in challenging and rewarding environments.

Throughout the year, cadets take part in a variety of camps and exercises held on Ministry of Defence training estates and within the extensive Stonyhurst College Estate. These activities allow cadets to develop their fieldcraft, navigation, leadership and military skills through realistic and engaging training scenarios.

A number of camps are delivered annually, including a Lower Grammar Recruits' Camp held on the Stonyhurst Estate, which provides new cadets with an introduction to military skills, teamwork and life within the CCF. More senior cadets may also have the opportunity to attend a Junior Cadet Instructors' Course, designed to develop leadership and instructional techniques, followed by a summer camp during the school holidays where they can further apply and develop these skills.

In addition to military-themed training, cadets have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of adventurous training activities, from water-based pursuits and mountain activities to team challenges and outdoor expeditions. These experiences help develop resilience, confidence, teamwork and leadership in a rewarding and enjoyable environment.

Annual camps provide some of the most memorable experiences within the CCF, enabling cadets to challenge themselves, form lasting friendships and develop valuable skills that will benefit them both during their time at Stonyhurst and beyond.

Please note that camp programmes and activities vary from year to year and are subject to available resources, volunteer staff availability and Ministry of Defence support.

MOD-Sponsored Cadet Courses

The opportunities available to Stonyhurst cadets extend far beyond the College grounds.

Through a wide range of Ministry of Defence-sponsored courses, cadets can develop leadership, adventure training, navigation, fieldcraft, marksmanship and other specialist skills while training alongside cadets from across the UK.

These nationally recognised courses are heavily subsidised and provide outstanding opportunities for personal development, challenge and achievement. They are often among the most rewarding experiences of a cadet's journey, helping young people build confidence, independence and leadership skills that will benefit them for life.

Cadets are encouraged to embrace these opportunities and make the most of everything the wider Cadet Forces can offer.

Stonyhurst’s connection to the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) stretches back more than a century.

Platoons and Traditions

Stonyhurst's connection to the Combined Cadet Force stretches back more than a century, and many of the traditions of today's Contingent reflect the College's proud military heritage.

The Contingent is organised into eight platoons, each named in honour of distinguished OS who demonstrated exceptional courage and service. Seven platoons bear the names of OS who were awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration for gallantry, while the eighth is named after the first Commanding Officer of the Stonyhurst Officer Training Corps.

The platoons are:

• Costello – Lieutenant Edmund William Costello VC (22nd Punjab Infantry Regiment)

• Coury – Second Lieutenant George Gabriel Coury VC (1st/4th Battalion, South Lancashire Regiment)

• Dease – Lieutenant Maurice James Dease VC (Royal Fusiliers)

• Ervine-Andrews – Captain Harold Marcus Ervine-Andrews VC (East Lancashire Regiment)

• Jackman – Captain James Joseph Bernard Jackman VC (Royal Northumberland Fusiliers)

• Kenna – Captain Paul Aloysius Kenna VC (21st Lancers)

• Liddell – Captain John Aidan Liddell VC (Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and Royal Flying Corps)

• Pearse – Colonel S. A. Pearse DSO, the first Officer Commanding of the Stonyhurst Officer Training Corps

These platoon names serve as a constant reminder of the values that underpin the Stonyhurst CCF: courage, leadership, service and commitment to others.

Calendar of Events

Lent Term

Lent 1
School Liaison Officer Visits	Throughout the year, pupils have the opportunity to meet with School Liaison Officers from the Armed Forces. These visits provide valuable insight into the wide range of career pathways available within the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, allowing pupils to ask questions and learn more about service life, training and future opportunities.
CCF, Military Camp – Altcar Training Camp, Merseyside	Military camps provide cadets with the opportunity to put their training into practice in a realistic and challenging environment. Activities may include live firing, fieldcraft, navigation, section tactics, training in built-up areas and multi-day field exercises. These camps are designed to develop confidence, resilience, teamwork and leadership while giving cadets a rewarding and memorable experience beyond their regular weekly training.
CCF Ranges – Altcar Training Camp	The Stonyhurst CCF provides cadets with the opportunity to develop marksmanship skills through a progressive range training programme delivered in a safe and controlled environment. Cadets receive instruction in weapon handling, range safety, marksmanship principles and shooting techniques, developing concentration, self-discipline and attention to detail. As their experience grows, cadets may have opportunities to participate in a variety of range practices and shooting competitions. Range training remains a popular and rewarding aspect of the CCF experience, helping cadets build confidence, responsibility and proficiency while adhering to the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

Lent 1

School Liaison Officer Visits

Throughout the year, pupils have the opportunity to meet with School Liaison Officers from the Armed Forces. These visits provide valuable insight into the wide range of career pathways available within the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, allowing pupils to ask questions and learn more about service life, training and future opportunities.

CCF, Military Camp – Altcar Training Camp, Merseyside

Military camps provide cadets with the opportunity to put their training into practice in a realistic and challenging environment. Activities may include live firing, fieldcraft, navigation, section tactics, training in built-up areas and multi-day field exercises.

These camps are designed to develop confidence, resilience, teamwork and leadership while giving cadets a rewarding and memorable experience beyond their regular weekly training.

CCF Ranges – Altcar Training Camp

The Stonyhurst CCF provides cadets with the opportunity to develop marksmanship skills through a progressive range training programme delivered in a safe and controlled environment.

Cadets receive instruction in weapon handling, range safety, marksmanship principles and shooting techniques, developing concentration, self-discipline and attention to detail. As their experience grows, cadets may have opportunities to participate in a variety of range practices and shooting competitions.

Range training remains a popular and rewarding aspect of the CCF experience, helping cadets build confidence, responsibility and proficiency while adhering to the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

Summer Term

Summer
CUO Dining Out	The CUO Dining Out is a formal occasion that provides CCF Officers and senior cadets with the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contribution of departing Cadet Under Officers. It is an important tradition within the Stonyhurst CCF, marking the culmination of their service and leadership within the Contingent.
Great Academies	Great Academies is one of the highlights of the CCF calendar, bringing together the entire Contingent for a ceremonial parade and prize-giving event. The occasion celebrates the achievements, commitment and progression of cadets throughout the year while recognising excellence across a range of disciplines.
Summer Adventure Training Camp	Summer Camp provides cadets with the opportunity to take part in adventurous and military-themed training in a challenging and rewarding environment. The programme combines cadet training with a range of outdoor and adventurous activities, allowing cadets to develop leadership, resilience, teamwork and self-confidence while building on the skills acquired throughout the year. Summer Camp is often one of the highlights of the CCF calendar, offering memorable experiences, new challenges and the opportunity to train alongside fellow cadets away from the College. Please note that the content of Summer Camp may vary from year to year, depending on available resources, volunteer staff and training opportunities.
CCF Central Camp, Altcar Training Camp	Camp organised and arranged by HQ NW Cadet training team, similar in content to the Military camp at easter. Open to all year groups including and above Grammar.
Bisley	Cadets may have the opportunity to represent Stonyhurst in regional and national shooting competitions, competing against other schools and cadet units from across the country. These events provide an opportunity to test marksmanship skills in a competitive environment while developing focus, discipline and sportsmanship.

Michealmas Term

Biennial Inspection

Every two years, the Stonyhurst CCF undergoes a formal Biennial Inspection, one of the most significant events in the Contingent calendar.

The inspection provides an opportunity to showcase the high standards of leadership, discipline, training and personal development achieved by our cadets. Conducted by senior representatives from the Cadet Forces and wider military community, the inspection reviews all aspects of the Contingent's activity, including training, administration, safety and cadet progression.

As part of the event, cadets participate in a ceremonial parade and demonstrate a range of skills developed through the CCF programme. It is also an opportunity for inspectors to meet cadets and staff, gaining an insight into the opportunities, experiences and achievements that make the Stonyhurst CCF such a valued part of College life.

Held during the Christmas Term, the Biennial Inspection is a proud occasion for the entire Contingent and serves as a celebration of the commitment, professionalism and enthusiasm shown by both cadets and volunteer staff.

Building skills for the future

The CCF is not only for those considering a career in the Armed Forces. It is a Ministry of Defence-sponsored youth organisation that helps young people develop leadership, resilience, teamwork and a wide range of life skills that are valuable in any future pathway.

Pupils are enrolled into the CCF from Lower Grammar onwards (age 13+), and each cadet is issued with a uniform, which they are expected to keep in good order for weekly training and inspection.

Training is varied and practical, combining elements of drill, fieldcraft, navigation and weapons training with a strong focus on leadership, teamwork, planning and discipline. Cadets learn to work effectively under pressure, support others and take on increasing levels of responsibility as they progress through the Contingent.

Alongside the challenge, the CCF is also a highly enjoyable experience. Many cadets build strong friendships and continue their involvement throughout their time at Stonyhurst, often progressing into senior leadership roles within the organisation as they develop.

Legacy and Service

The history of the CCF at Stonyhurst reflects the College’s enduring values of service, courage and leadership. Through times of national challenge and change, including the World Wars and beyond, Stonyhurst has maintained a proud tradition of developing young people committed to serving others.

Today, the CCF continues this legacy through a programme of leadership development, outdoor education and personal challenge. While rooted in tradition, it remains firmly focused on preparing cadets for the demands of modern life, encouraging them to grow in confidence, resilience and responsibility.

In doing so, the CCF honours those who came before, while helping to shape the leaders of the future.

Links with military families

Our robust CCF programme is an attractive offering for pupils who would like to follow in their families footsteps. With a long tradition of welcoming armed forces families, Stonyhurst encourages individuality and the opportunity for children to become all that they can be.

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Combined Cadet Force

A Welcome from the Contingent Commender

About the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) at Stonyhurst College

A Proud History of the CCF at Stonyhurst College

The CCF Experience at Stonyhurst College

Structure and Training

Stonyhurst’s connection to the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) stretches back more than a century.

Legacy and Service

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