Hereford Cathedral School's Combined Cadet Force have been on Easter Camp since the end of term. Seventeen cadets have been staying in luxury at Wilmot House, the School’s boarding house at How Caple, rather than the usual army training camp.
Taking advantage of the stunning countryside of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and local areas, the cadets have enjoyed a wide range of activities. Canoeing the Wye was one of the highlights, particularly in the glorious sunshine; but spirits were not dampened by the drizzle of the second day. Mountain biking in the Forest of Dean was also a firm favourite, some of the novices making really impressive progress.
The cadets also visited the National Memorial Arboretum to recognise and reflect on the sacrifices made by so many in the service of their country. It was poignant to find the names of some Old Herefordians recorded on the Armed Forces Memorial.
A range of practical leadership tasks were undertaken in Haugh Woods, including preparing a feast using military rations and other activities designed to improve communication, leadership, teamwork and group bonding. This theme was continued at the Black Mountains Activity cCentre on the high-ropes and building a racing cart. The military theme of the camp was reinforced by a visit to the shooting ranges at Brecon, where the cadets undertook a range of different scenarios in the simulator, from improving basic principles to a variety of different target engagements.
The cadets would like to thank the teachers, support staff and volunteers who gave up their holidays to lead and assist on the camp, and the staff at Wilmot for their hospitality. In return, the staff were grateful to the cadets for being a great bunch and really getting stuck in to every opportunity in good spirit and with great humour.
