On Thursday, 11th December 2025, 13 CCF cadets from the Navy, Army, and RAF attended the Senior Healthy Minds course, taking an important step towards becoming Mental Health Ambassadors within the CCF and the wider school community.
Throughout the day, cadets worked together on a range of interactive activities designed to build understanding, confidence, and communication around mental wellbeing, in line with CCF values of leadership, responsibility, and teamwork.
The cadets engaged in thoughtful and respectful discussions on conditions that can affect mental health, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicide. They also debated the positives and negatives of social media and its impact on wellbeing.
It was a powerful and engaging day that highlighted teamwork, maturity, and a strong commitment to supporting others. The course strongly reinforces the core aims of the CCF by developing resilient, responsible, and compassionate young leaders. By improving awareness of mental health and wellbeing, cadets are better equipped to support themselves and others, make informed decisions under pressure, and uphold their duty of care within the CCF and the wider school community.
Wellbeing, Safeguarding and Support
Safeguarding and the wellbeing of our CCF cadets remain a top priority. Courses such as Senior Healthy Minds directly support the CCF safeguarding framework by helping cadets recognise signs of concern in themselves and others, understand risk factors, and know how and when to seek help.
By encouraging open discussion around mental health, the course supports early intervention and promotes a culture where cadets feel confident to raise concerns. This aligns with the CCF’s duty of care, reinforcing clear pathways for support through trusted adults, CCF staff, and the school’s safeguarding systems. Cadets are reminded that support is always available and that speaking up is a sign of strength and responsibility.
Statement from the Contingent Commander and OC Army
Wing Commander Bosworth, Contingent Commander:
“As Contingent Commander, I see firsthand the importance of equipping cadets with the skills to look after themselves and others. The Senior Healthy Minds course makes a significant contribution to our safeguarding responsibilities and to the development of mature, resilient young people. The level of engagement and professionalism shown by our cadets throughout was exemplary.”
Captain McGinn, OC Army:
“I am particularly proud of the way cadets approached what can be challenging subjects with honesty, respect, and empathy. This course gives them the confidence to recognise when support is needed and reinforces that seeking help is both responsible and courageous. These are vital qualities in our cadets and in young people beyond the CCF.”
