This year’s CCF Summer Camp took place at Altcar Training Camp, Liverpool, where our cadets spent five unforgettable days living in military barracks and immersing themselves in a demanding programme of military training, leadership challenges, and adventure activities.
Every activity was designed to push cadets beyond what they believed they were capable of – physically, mentally, and as a team. Throughout the week, they developed resilience, confidence, communication, leadership, and courage, strengthening not only their own abilities but also those of their sections and the contingents.
Day one: Close Quarter Battle
The week began with Close Quarter Battle (CQB) drills, close target observation, and individual tactical skills. Cadets completed a challenging CQB lane, engaging targets at distances of less than five metres while moving from dense woodland into open ground. It was a demanding introduction that tested concentration, confidence, and tactical awareness from the very start.
Day two: Platoon in action
Building on the skills developed during Exercise Battle of Barney, day two focused on section and platoon battle drills. After refining attack drills and learning how to make effective use of different forms of cover, the cadets faced a realistic tactical scenario.
Patrolling across sand dunes and winding tracks, the platoon came under fire from multiple enemy positions within a village. Working together under pressure, they conducted a coordinated assault, adapting seamlessly as the battle transitioned from rural terrain into an urban environment. The exercise demanded teamwork, communication, and decisive leadership at every stage.
Day three: Live firing
The highlight for many cadets was the opportunity to take part in live firing. Shooting at 25 metres from the prone, sitting, and kneeling positions, cadets focused on improving accuracy and consistency while applying the principles of marksmanship. Previous range days through the year made sure they were prepared; hitting the highest scores from the whole camp.
A standout performance came from Cadet Finley Cable-Jones, who achieved an outstanding 27 mm grouping, demonstrating exceptional precision and control. Cadets also trained on the DCCT system, further reinforcing their marksmanship skills and weapon handling.
Day four: Teamwork on the water
Following several demanding days of military training, the contingent headed to Liverpool Waterpark for a well-earned change of pace. Working in eight-person teams on giant paddleboards, cadets raced along the water while relying on communication, coordination, and teamwork to stay afloat.
The morning also featured the inflatable water assault course, providing plenty of laughter as cadets (and staff alike) found themselves taking an unexpected dip. While great fun, the activities also reinforced trust, leadership, and team spirit, proving that some of the most valuable lessons can be learnt outside the training area.
Day five: The Altcar Challenge
The final day brought the highly anticipated Altcar Challenge, a camp-wide competition featuring archery, air rifle shooting, volleyball, STEM challenges, and a variety of team events.
Our contingent delivered an exceptional performance throughout the day, with Blue Team, led by Sgt Kit Bowden, achieving a remarkable victory in the STEM competition. Made up entirely of seven Barney cadets, the team outperformed more than 300 cadets from across the camp to claim first place – an outstanding achievement.
The camp concluded with the Alt-Festival, organised by the Northwest Cadet Training Team. With live music, food vendors, and a range of activities, it was the perfect opportunity for cadets to relax, celebrate the week’s achievements, and spend time with fellow cadets from across the region.
A camp to remember
This year’s CCF Central Camp was an outstanding success. Across five action-packed days, our cadets challenged themselves, built lasting friendships, learnt new skills, and created memories that will stay with them for years to come.
Above all, the camp embodied everything that Barney CCF stands for: resilience, teamwork, leadership, and the confidence to push beyond perceived limits. Every cadet returned stronger, more capable, and ready for the challenges ahead in the new academic year as they continue in their Barney CCF journey.
