Over the weekend of 22–24 May, senior Army Section cadets from Calday Combined Cadet Force took part in three demanding days of 3 and 4 Star Fieldcraft training. They were joined by several younger cadets, who played an important role in supporting the weekend’s activities.
The advanced training gave senior cadets the opportunity to build upon their existing fieldcraft knowledge while developing the leadership, planning and decision-making skills required at 3 and 4 Star level. Rather than simply following instructions, they were expected to take greater responsibility for planning their own exercise, organising their teams and putting their plans into practice in the field.
Working in challenging conditions, the cadets experienced long training days, short nights and exceptionally warm weather. Activities were carefully managed around the hottest periods, with scheduled downtime allowing everyone to rest, rehydrate and recover before continuing with the programme.
Our younger cadets also performed exceptionally well throughout the weekend. They practised and developed their own fieldcraft skills while acting as the opposing force during the senior cadets’ exercise. This gave them valuable experience of operating tactically in the field while making the scenarios more realistic and challenging for those completing their advanced training.
Fieldcraft weekends such as this test much more than practical military skills. Cadets must communicate effectively, remain alert, adapt when plans change and continue working together despite tiredness and difficult conditions. The weekend therefore provided an excellent opportunity to develop confidence, resilience, teamwork and leadership.
A huge well done to every cadet who took part. Their enthusiasm, determination and positive attitude were evident throughout the weekend, and they should be extremely proud of everything they achieved.
