Outdoor Pursuits

 Combined Cadet Force (CCF)

From Year 7, students are invited to join the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), which offers both Royal Navy and Army sections. Membership of the Army Cadets provides a wide range of opportunities for personal development and adventure. Cadets take part in an exciting programme of activities including fieldcraft, adventure training, first aid, music, sport and marksmanship, among many others, all designed to build confidence, resilience and leadership skills.

Those in the CCF will complete a two year syllabus, with a reduced number wishing to serve in the Sixth Form (particularly those with careers in the Armed Forces in mind). Having joined, he or she may serve in the contingent until the end of U6, gaining experience in leadership and achieving a Specialised Training Award from their chosen service section.

Cadets from both Sections may go on annual Camps organised by the contingent. Activities include canoeing, sailing, abseiling and elementary rock climbing coupled with military training leadership. Other events include the Central CCF camp during the summer holidays, or their respective service camps. 
 

Duke of Edinburgh's Award 

At Prior Park College, participation in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a valued and popular element of school life. We offer the Bronze, Silver and Gold awards, each comprising four key sections: Skill, Service, Physical Recreation and Expedition. The programme provides students with meaningful opportunities to develop resilience, independence and a strong sense of social responsibility.

Expedition training takes place during activity time and on several weekends in the Lent and Summer terms. This means that pupils may opt for both the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the CCF. Expeditions take place at many locations across the UK including the Mendips, Marlborough Downs, Dartmoor, Exmoor, the Brecon Beacons, the Lake District and Scotland.

All levels of the award include a practice expedition and an assessed expedition, with the duration and distance being longer for the Gold award than the Silver. All expeditions are led by suitably qualified staff from within the school. Typical costs involved are £150 for Bronze and £250 for Silver and Gold (guideline costs only). A large outlay on equipment is unnecessary as the College can provide tents, cooking equipment, rucksacks and maps. Students will normally provide their own boots and waterproofs.