The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is an educational partnership between the school and the Ministry of Defence which provides pupils with the opportunity to develop personal responsibility, self-discipline, teamwork and leadership through a broad range of challenging and exciting military-style activities. 

Through the activities on offer at St Peter’s, we aim to introduce core values such as discipline, courage, selfless commitment, and respect for others. Practical exercises help to improve pupils’ endurance and resourcefulness whilst encouraging them to persevere in often difficult conditions. 

St Peter’s CCF is an Army Section. The Contingent Commander, Captain Sal Sleigh, and School Staff Instructor, Captain Tom Smith MBE, both served in the Regular Army in the Royal Corps of Signals.

Pupils may join CCF in the Fourth Form and their CCF journey begins with basic training, which includes training in weapon handling, drills, First Aid, navigation, military knowledge and fieldcraft. This helps our pupils learn how to operate in an outdoor environment. A formal parade is held to mark the end of basic training, during which pupils are presented with their berets.

Senior Cadets undertake training in advanced fieldcraft, command and leadership activities, communications training, survival skills, method of instruction, problem solving and critical thinking tasks. This training enables the cadets to develop vital leadership skills 

Cadets also have the opportunity to assume additional responsibility and earn promotions, with one cadet being appointed as Head of CCF in the Upper Sixth each year.

St Peter’s runs a number of offsite activities for the CCF including day trips to the ranges at Strensall; overnight field exercises on Strensall common and a week on a Cadet Summer Camp during the summer holidays.

Cadets at all levels are invited to try other activities such as arrow tag, archery, military swimming, and a military style dinner night is held periodically.

To see what activities our CCF Cadets get up to click here.