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Exercise Ayres Challenge

Our recent overseas 13 day training exercise in Cyprus offered a unique opportunity for cadets to develop their teamwork, leadership and resilience by operating in a completely different climate and environment. Alongside the military focus, the programme was designed to broaden cadets’ horizons with cultural experiences and adventurous activities.

The core aim was to challenge and stretch cadets through a blend of tactical training, military engagement and personal development, while also giving insight into life in the Armed Forces. The group had the chance to meet personnel from the Army, RAF, and even the United States Air Force, gaining a valuable glimpse into various military roles and units based on the island.

Highlights included:

• 2-day Tactical Training Package
• Skill at Arms training
• Live military shooting
• Clay target shooting
• Water sports & beach activities
• Contingent BBQ on the beach

Visits to:

• Regular Army Officers’ Mess
• RAF Helicopter Squadron
• United States Air Force, including a U2 aircraft briefing
• Military Working Dogs Section
• Defence Fire Services at both Episkopi and RAF Akrotiri
• Local heritage sites and Dreamers’ Bay
• A night out at the cinema

Once at Episkopi Garrison, the camp started off with a full camp orientation, helping cadets get their bearings and locate essentials like the NAAFI, shops, and cafes. This was followed by a full trip briefing, a swim test, and a welcome beach visit to settle in.

In the days that followed, cadets undertook intensive skill at arms training alongside DCCT sessions in preparation for live firing. During visits to the fire services at RAF Akrotiri and Episkopi, cadets experienced what it’s like to handle real emergency equipment and practiced rescuing a casualty from a simulated aircraft fire.

The military working dogs demonstration proved to be a highlight—cadets learned about the different roles these highly trained dogs play and watched them in action during a live containment exercise.

The group also enjoyed a field exercise, using the impressive Urban Training Village facility to put their skills into practice. They were deployed by a chinook helicopter which made the start of the exercise very realistic. A day on the ranges also honed in on shooting principles and the last few days were spent on the local beach enjoying a number of water sports including paddle boarding, inflatables and the SUPs.

This immersive trip has already proven to be an unforgettable experience for all involved—challenging, inspiring, and full of adventure. The cadets collaborated well with other contingents including Queen Ethelburga’s and St Peter’s CCF and Northumbria ACF and were an absolute credit to the School and contingent.

Lt Col C E Connor