CCF Summer Camp to Newtown Ranges, Jersey Camp, Isle of Wight

King's Bruton CCF Summer Camp - Exercise 'Sudden Contact' Jersey Camp, Isle of Wight 2025

Flickr album: CCF - Summer Camp - Isle of Wight - June 2025 | Height: auto | Theme: Default | Skin: Default Skin

King’s Bruton CCF set off for their annual summer camp, which was held at Jersey Camp on the Isle of Wight. Great planning by Major Barrow saw Exercise “Sudden Contact” coincide with the IOW Festival! A ferry of vibrant festival goers created an added excitement for the cadets. which also meant heavy traffic, and slow progress getting to Jersey Camp. The cadets quickly settled into the camp routine and once exercise admin was completed, they were able to eat and relax soaking up the evening sunshine.

Saturday started early with a morning parade, ration pack and weapon issue. The 48-hour exercise was designed to test the cadets fieldcraft skills that they had learned over the past year, in an alien and unknown environment and to test them physically and mentally. The enemy set off very early to make their camp and to plan their incursions. The hot weather tested the cadets’ endurance, but they were fortunate to have struck camp with bashas in the woods, providing vital shade and shelter. The day was packed with tactical excitement - beginning with a Recce Patrol, followed by a Recce Encounter with the enemy, and culminating in an intense Bridge Attack. By the afternoon, the enemy struck back, keeping the cadets on edge, skills heightened and trying to work together as coordinated sections.

Sunday saw another early start as the sun was awake early. The enemy launched another early attack, sparking a series of engagements throughout the day. The cadets conducted a forward recce, repelled a surprise assault, and in the late evening were able to recce the enemy positions which allowed them to plan their final attack. It was an incredibly full day - testing their stamina, teamwork, and strategic thinking under pressure.

Monday brought the earliest of starts, launching a decisive operation to neutralise the enemy. A most impressive section attack obliterated the enemy. With spirits high and more good weather, the Exercise came to a close, and cadets returned to camp to clean rifles and return all kit and equipment. The afternoon was a change of pace with high-energy fun at laser quest, followed by the refreshing luxury of a shower. The evening ended with a delicious BBQ prepared by the dedicated CCF staff, under breezy but pleasant skies.

The final day, Tuesday, began even earlier as the cadets left camp and headed to Dancing Ledge for an unforgettable coasteering and climbing experience. The adrenaline rush and coastal scenery made for the perfect finale to our week. With a bit of time to spare, Major Barrow allowed for a quick diversion (and very welcome!) McDonald’s stop before returning to school - tired, exhilarated, and full of stories.

The five days were intense, challenging, and unforgettable. The cadets were excellent for 5 days and my thanks to all the hard working CCF staff who made the camp so successful. A great example of teamwork at the end of a long term.

Major Barrow - Contingent Commander, King’s Bruton CCF

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