Combined Cadet Force excels at Biennial Inspection

In May our Combined Cadet Force from across the trust came together for the biennial inspection at Altcar Training Camp, Formby.

The event, overseen and run by our Personal Development team, saw cadets from King’s Bolton, King’s Hawthornes, King’s Liverpool and King’s Warrington being assessed by Brigadier Ged Salzano MBE on overall standards, discipline, and performance of the Combined Cadet Force. The presence of such a senior officer underscores the importance and formality of the inspection.

During the inspection, various aspects of the unit are evaluated, including uniform standards, drill proficiency, administrative records, training effectiveness, and overall cadet behaviour. The purpose is to ensure that the cadet unit maintains high standards of military discipline, training quality, and organisational efficiency. It also provides feedback for continuous improvement and recognition of excellence within the unit.

On the day the cadets were led by Colour Sergeant Carlos Gomes, Year 11 student from King’s Leadership Academy Hawthornes. Colour Sergeant Gomes commanded nothing but the highest of standards from the Great Schools Trust CCF in his role as Drill Instructor.

Of his experience of being a cadet Carlos said: “Being a part of the cadets has shaped who I am as a person and the direction I want to go as I move forward and complete my studies at King’s Hawthornes. I hope to secure an apprenticeship with the Royal Marines following my GCSEs this year.

The experience and opportunities I have been given through the cadets has given me focus and shown me a career path that I hadn’t previously considered.

I will forever be grateful for this opportunity. It has been an honour to lead the cadets during today’s biennial inspection.”

Following their biennial inspection, cadets from across the trust competed in the prestigious King’s Cup Competition, representing their respective schools. The event featured rigorous contests in drill, fieldcraft, first aid, and shooting.

King’s Leadership Academy Liverpool emerged victorious, excelling in all categories and proudly taking home the coveted King’s Cup. This outstanding achievement reflects the dedication, skill, and teamwork of the Liverpool cadets, showcasing their exemplary performance and commitment to excellence. Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and competitive spirit.