On Wednesday 7 October the Combined Cadet Force of Shiplake College held its Biennial Inspection. The inspection, which took place on the College grounds, was conducted by Air Vice Marshal Andy Turner CBE MSc MA BSc FRAeS FCMI RAF, of the AOC Training Group.The inspection was divided across several activities and areas; the cadets had been split into their various disciplines, and given different tasks to accomplish throughout the day.
The afternoon commenced with a parade, where Air Vice Marshal Turner inspected and had a brief chat with Shiplake pupils who are involved in the CCF. Upon completion of the parade, the Inspecting Officer was able to observe the cadets undergoing a variety of training activities. The RAF cadets, stationed in the sports hall, were using model aircrafts to assist with the understanding of the principles of flight. The Officer then moved on to visiting the Year 10 recruits, who were undergoing intensive leadership and team building activities on the croquet lawn and orchard.
After watching the activities and speaking to the cadets, the sound of blank firing drew the inspection party down to the riverside, in order to watch the Royal Navy and Army Sections. The Royal Navy cadets were conducting canoeing training on the water, taking full advantage of the River Thames being on the doorstep of the College! Canoeing, as well as several other water-based sports and activities, are integral to the Royal Navy syllabus. These activities are often held on the river Thames, although the cadets have also visited Reading Sailing Club as a venue for all sailing activities. The inspection then moved to the riverside wood, where the Army cadets were being put through a two man fire and manoeuvre exercise. The exercise required the pupils to patrol through the woodland, engaging simulated targets with blank ammunition. This activity required the pair to work as a team, communicating effectively with each other as well as showing quick reactions and good observational skills.
On completion of the inspection, a final parade was used as an opportunity for Air Vice Marshal Turner to address the contingent. He delivered an engaging speech, telling of how much he had enjoyed his visit, remarking on the obvious enthusiasm of the cadets and the clear pride displayed in what they are doing. Shiplake CCF is a voluntary organisation and, as such, is fairly small. However, a parting comment from the visiting inspector struck home: he said that there not being much lemon, it is very well-squeezed. Head of CCF Mr Steve Macpherson would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the team, to thank Air Vice Marshal Turner for his time and enthusiasm for the cadet organisation.
