The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is a Ministry of Defence sponsored youth organisation that forms part of the extra-curricular activities programme at Bradfield College.  CCF is a compulsory activity during the Fourth Form and Shell  (Year 9 and 10) year groups, after which pupils may continue to participate through to the Upper Sixth. 

The CCF is split into a Royal Marines Section, an Army Section and a Royal Air Force Section, each of which is run by CCF officers from the teaching staff. 

The aim of CCF is to develop leadership, team work and self-reliance.  CCF training is designed to challenge pupils and to provide them with new experiences in a supportive and fun environment.   In addition to military skills, pupils are introduced to a variety of adventurous activities including rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, cross-country skiing and mountain biking.  Outside of term time the CCF run a number of voluntary adventurous training trips, including recent trips to Norway, Scotland, Cornwall and Bavaria. 

Pupils who decide to stay on in the CCF beyond the Shell Year will be afforded the opportunity to act as junior leaders.  In this role they assist the CCF staff in the training and mentoring of younger cadets, gaining further valuable leadership experience.  Through service with the CCF we believe Bradfield pupils gain valuable life skills and have the opportunity to share unique experiences with their fellow cadets.

The CCF programme has close links to the College’s Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and many CCF activities are recognised by the scheme. Pupils who continue with CCF into the Sixth Form may enrol with the Cadet Vocational Qualification Organisation (CVQO) and achieve a BTEC First Diploma in Public Services.

Duke of Edinburgh's Award  

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is available to every pupil and is purely voluntary.

At Bronze and Silver levels, participants must successfully achieve goals in four areas: community service; skill development; physical recreation; and expedition.  At Gold level, there is an additional requirement to participate in an independently-organised week-long residential activity.

Emphasis is placed on personal target setting, self-reliance and an individual programme of activities. 

An introduction is given to all pupils in the Shell, but pupils who start at the College in the Sixth Form receive a personal briefing if desired.

The Bronze Award could be completed by the end of the Shell - using CCF time - but at Silver and Gold levels the Award involves holiday participation for the expedition training and assessment: there is a nominal charge for these.