Ex Canford Norway 25 - 33 Cadets Make Lifelong Memories
- Justine Greenfield
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
“This trip made me realise that I can keep going even when I think I can't, and that I am much more capable than I thought I was. In future I will be less nervous to take new opportunities because I am more sure I can do it.”
In February half term a group of 33 Fourth Form (Year 10) cadets plus CCF staff deployed to Norway for a week of Nordic ski touring in the Haardanger Vida region. The plan was for three days of ski training followed by a three day expedition, with a night in a snow hole and a night in a mountain hut…
An early start to a long multi-leg journey to Stavanger and then up into the increasingly snowy mountains set the tone for a slightly less restful half term for our intrepid cadets and ever-attentive staff. The plan was for a challenging but fun expedition; the philosophy was one of ‘high challenge – high support’ as one of the best ways of developing resilience, teamwork and self-realisation – along with hopefully the right mix of Type 1 and Type 2 fun!
APPLY FOR A GRANT FROM THE CONNAUGHT TRUST FOR YOUR UNIT:
“There were times when the going got really tough, such as when we were going up a really steep mountainside, or going down steep slopes covered in trees when I kept falling over. The way I got through it was by getting up every time and being determined to keep going. I knew that every one of us was going through the same challenges, but if we worked hard and helped each other, we would all make it.”
After some fast paced training from the expert instructors (thanks to Jerry, Bill, Paul, Glen, Brent, Topsy and Jim) it was time to prepare and head out on the three day expedition – a significant but achievable undertaking. The long and uphill first day tested both individual endurance and collective teamwork, especially hauling the stores pulk.
“The expedition pushed me to my limits by doing 23 km of skiing over 9.5 hours in one day. From this experience it has made me realise that I am tougher than I thought as I managed to keep my head held high and keep others going. It has shown me that I am someone others can come to if struggling.”
APPLY FOR A GRANT FROM THE CONNAUGHT TRUST FOR YOUR UNIT:
Building and sleeping in a snow hole / quincy, a ski tour in the wilds, and living and sleeping in close proximity in a mountain hut were all highlights of the expedition, as was the feeling of achievement (and hot shower) at the end… A common theme of the reflections was how the cadets got to know themselves and each other so much better:
“The best bit was being part of a small group and learning to work well together as a team. It was great because I got to form new bonds with people I had previously not interacted with. I also loved the small breaks we had on mountainsides, where we got to see some spectacular views!”
“It made me think more about others – how you don't know their full personality until you’re in a group with them.”
“It gave me the opportunity to make better friendships with people I would not have otherwise. It has also helped me realise how much we can do as people and how to push through at the toughest times.”
“The trip made it clear to me that if I don't push myself to do anything then I wouldn't be able to do it.”
“Through this trip I have become more resilient and more organised. Now I will be able to take greater responsibility and take action when needed”
“I think I've really learnt to appreciate the simple things that really make a huge difference, like a 5 minute break when tired, a sip of a hot drink when cold, or a kind word from a friend when you’re feeling down. The trip has made me more grateful for many things that you would normally take for granted in your day to day life, and I will never forget that. Because of this trip, I believe I will be more grateful for what I have rather than what isn't there, which will really serve to improve me as a person.”
And from a parent…
“X was reluctant to sign up for the trip initially and took a little persuasion to go. She has thoroughly enjoyed the experience (except the blisters!) and came back enthusiastic and full of stories. She has made new friends and realised it is worth seizing opportunities when they arise however daunting they might seem."
Huge thanks to:
Connaught Trust and Ulysses Trust for their generous and game changing support to Canford CCF’s expeditions over the years (and we hope for future years!)
HQ RC Cadets for their oversight, advice and assurance
HQ RN/RM CCF for their support and funding
Adventure1 for their organisation and top notch instructors who became more like role models as the exped went on
Canford home team (COEC staff and School Trips in particular) for making it all happen.
Maj Rob Hoey | OC Royal Marines Detachment and AT lead | Canford CCF
Комментарии