After securing a victory in the regional heats earlier in the year, cadets from across the Loughborough Schools Foundation (LSF) competed together, with an exemplary display of teamwork and skill, which saw them scoop the winning trophy. A team of 13 cadets competed while two reserves helped command and control during the day.

In addition to winning the overall Royal Air Squadron Trophy Competition, which took place on Sunday 3 March, the LSF Cadets also came first in a number of individual events including shooting and RAF knowledge.

The Royal Air Squadron Trophy Competition was created in 1998 as a way for CCF Royal Air Force sections to contest the Royal Air Squadron Trophy. The event brings together CCF sections from the best schools across the UK where cadets face stiff competition in heats including shooting, uniform and drill, RAF knowledge, first aid, leadership and teamwork, and aircraft knowledge.

Loughborough Schools Foundation Contingent Commander Major Ben Ward said: “These Cadets are remarkable young people who are a true credit to the Foundation and a shining example of what is possible when young people work together. Having secured second place in the competition last year and first this year, we are so proud of what our CCF achieves.”

Team captain Gregory said: “I had the pleasure of captaining our RAST team this year as I endeavoured to further our successes last year. My team are a credit to themselves and are the best in the country for a reason. I would like to thank them all for their effort and support throughout the year as without them none of this would have been possible. I would also like to make sure to thank our staff who helped us over the past 6 months, especially our Section OC, Flt Lt Smith as her unwavering support for myself and the team is crucial.”

“As myself and several members of the team leave school this year, we hope that those taking on senior positions can further improve on our results. I also speak for all of this year’s leavers when I say that we will miss everyone and we wish everyone luck for next year.”

The CCF is an educational partnership between Loughborough Schools Foundation and the Ministry of Defence, and the Foundation operates Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force sections. Alongside the three military sections, LSF also offer Corps of Drums as a lunchtime club. Whichever section a student joins, they will quickly build important qualities such as teamwork, confidence and self-discipline, as well as later having the opportunity to take on leadership roles.

For further information please visit https://lsf.org/grammar/extra-curricular/combined-cadet-force/