Embedded within schools, and supported by the Ministry of Defence, the CCF provides students aged 12 to 18 with opportunities to develop through structured activities rooted in military ethos—leadership, discipline and service. Preparing young people for their future careers whether it be in the Armed Forces or not, the programme equips them for any professional field, fostering confidence, teamwork, and a deep sense of responsibility.
CCF Presence
The schools delivering the CCF programme to hundreds of students each year, offering them the chance to participate in adventurous training, field craft, ceremonial drill, marksmanship, and more.
Across the West Midlands, the scale of the CCF programme is impressive—with over 6,000 Cadets this academic year (2024-25) and 450 adult volunteers giving their time, energy, and skills to support weekly training, weekend camps and community service activities. Cadets are often seen supporting civic events, volunteering locally, and representing their regions at national camps and competitions.
Findings from the 2025 Northampton Report
Published in April 2025, the University of Northampton’s Institute for Social Innovation and Impact report provided long-awaited academic validation of what many schools and communities already knew: Cadet Forces deliver extraordinary value.
Key findings include:
- Academic Gains – Participation in the Cadet Forces correlates with improved school attendance, better behaviour, and greater academic attainment, particularly in pupils who face disadvantage.
- Social Mobility – Cadets, especially those from lower-income households, are more likely to go on to further education or enter employment with stronger soft skills and self-belief.
- Return on Investment. According to the University of Northampton’s 2021 analysis, the Cadet Forces generate a great return on investment through improving education outcomes, employability, health and wellbeing and contributing to the community.
- Community Impact – Cadets and volunteers contribute thousands of hours of voluntary service annually, strengthening ties between schools and the communities they serve.
Work-Ready Skills for Local Industry
For employers, the value of CCF-trained young people is clear. Cadets develop a mindset aligned with key workforce needs: problem-solving, communication, resilience, and initiative. Many also take on leadership roles as Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) within their school units, managing teams, leading training sessions, and mentoring younger Cadets.
With a growing emphasis on employability skills from local industry and educational leaders alike, the CCF is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace readiness. For employers, engaging with local CCF units—whether through visits, talks, or placement opportunities—can also help connect with a pool of motivated and capable future employees.
A Vision for the Future
The Combined Cadet Force represents a vital investment in our region’s social infrastructure across the West Midlands, its presence is growing—in schools, in community events, and in the conversations around youth opportunity and skills development.
By supporting the CCF, schools are not just offering extracurricular activities—they’re shaping engaged, capable, and community-minded citizens. And for Staffordshire’s broader society, that investment pays dividends in the calibre of young people stepping forward as future leaders, workers, and volunteers.
Kyle Aldridge – School Cadet Engagement Officer – West Midland RFCA
