Stamford Welland Academy to launch Combined Cadet Force

Stamford Welland Academy is preparing to launch its own Combined Cadet Force for the first time.

Thirty pupils will be able to sign up to the CCF scheme when they return to school in September.

It will initially focus on the Army but could expand into the Navy and Royal Air Force in the future.

Pupils will learn a variety of skills including navigation, first aid and rifle shooting.

Instructor Kate Blundell, who will be responsible for the programme, said: "CCF is a really valuable programme for students where they are able to learn and embrace the core values of the Army, which are courage, discipline, respect, integrity, loyalty and selfless commitment.

“The CCF contingent will also offer students a real sense of community, helping them to feel part of a family and giving them the chance to learn core teamwork skills.

"These skills are applicable to everyday life and will aid in the students’ personal and social development.”

Pupils need to be over the age of 13 to take part.

Next summer the cadets will put their skills to the test at a week-long summer camp.

Headteacher Vicky Lloyd said: “We are delighted to be able to offer our students the opportunity to be a part of a CCF from September.

"This is yet another example of our commitment to combining the best educational practices in our academic curriculum with the character-building opportunities afforded in our parallel curriculum to best develop our young people and prepare them for the future.”