Haberdashers’ Adams CCF (Army Section) wins Military Skills Competition of HQ Centre (West) Brigade area for the third consecutive year, a feat never achieved by any CCF or ACF team. The victory was secured by a commanding margin of 11 points.
The team of ten cadets was drawn from pupils in Year 10 to Upper Sixth. They were led by RSM Watts (I/C) and ably supported by CSM Carpenter (2I/C). Both RSM Watts and CSM Baguley have been members of all three winning teams, an incredible achievement. While for Sjt Price and Cpl Scanlon, this was their first military skills competition, and both performed phenomenally throughout.
The competition took place at Swynnerton Training Camp on 24-26th April 2026. Eleven teams (a mix of CCFs and ACFs) were assessed on ten military skill stands/scenarios. Adams’ CCF performed particularly well in orienteering, war gaming, First Aid, navigation and harbour drill.
During the wargame, Cpl Scanlon, operating on the anti-tank element, helped inflict heavy enemy losses with no losses to his own detachment, contributing to a final score of 41 enemy to 9 friendly. Orienteering was one of the closest events, with the team covering 5km in 45 minutes over varied terrain. The result came down to a sprint finish over the final 400 metres carrying rifles. On the navigation stand, Sjt Price’s knowledge of map symbols secured additional points and on the first aid stand, CSM Baguley delivered a strong performance treating a burns casualty. CSM Carpenter, acting as 2IC, played a key role in supporting the team throughout the weekend and maintaining organisation across all stands.
Mr Chima, CCF Contingent Commander said: “Credit is due to RSM Watts who prepared the team meticulously. The cadets were fantastic throughout the competition always remaining in good spirits – it was a fantastic example of teamwork across year groups. I would also like to thank all staff involved, both over the weekend and during the preparation beforehand, for making this possible and enabling our cadets to take part in the competition.”
RSM Watts reflected: “Over a competitive and demanding weekend, the team showed strong teamwork, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure. The result was a well-earned victory and a historic triple win!”
The Team
- RSM WATTS
CSM CARPENTER
CSM BAGULEY
C. Sjt GARRETT
Sjt. EDWARDS
Sjt. PRICE
A. Sjt. EVANS
Cpl. GEORGE
Cpl. RUSSELL
Cpl. SCANLON
Adams' CCF
The Combined Cadet Force of Haberdashers’ Adams was founded in 1955. It is open to boys and girls from Year 8 and above. There are currently 160 cadets, 80 in the Army section and 80 in the RAF section. They meet on Friday after school.
