Thomas Hardye School CCF Water Sports Adventure Training

"I was very apprehensive about the long kayak, however, when I was on it it was really enjoyable and my confidence in a kayak has sky-rocketed - thanks to the Connaught Trust!" CLCpl BG

For 3 days in July 21 cadets from both Army and RAF sections of the Thomas Hardye CCF took part in water-based activities in order to achieve their 2* AT award, thus enabling them to apply for courses provided by CCAT once they are 15.

With the help of excellent instructors from SeaKayak Dorset, based in Osprey Quay Portland, all cadets paddle-boarded, kayaked and coast-steered their way to completing their 2* syllabus. This level of instruction is simply not possible without the help from 3rd party AT providers as we lack the number of CFAVs with relevant qualifications to deliver this training. Engaging 3rd party providers for 3 days was also simply not possible without the grant from the Connaught Trust, so we are incredibly lucky to have this resource to call on when needed, and immensely grateful to have been successful with our bid.

“Coast-steering is brilliant! I am afraid of heights so I hate climbing up rocks and stuff – but I didn’t have to go high up to jump in to the sea – I could jump in from a low rock and it was still great!” CCpl JR

Being fairly close to the sea many cadets already had some experience in one or more of the disciplines with varying degrees of confidence and ability. By the end of day 3 all were brimming with confidence and considerably more competent in all three activities!

Coast-steering is always rather challenging at Portland Bill, regardless of sea-state, but all cadets embraced that challenge with gusto! Of all the activities it is the one that often provides the most thrills and spills, and the one in which they have least experience, but the superb training and instruction from SKD enabled all cadets, no matter how nervous or reluctant they were at the beginning, to rise to the challenge and jump in....literally!

"I found it a great opportunity to take part in challenging activities, whilst having the time of my life! So thank you to the Connaught Trust for providing me with such fun and excitement, (at such a low cost)!" CLCpl HM

APPLY FOR A GRANT FOR YOUR UNIT

https://www.connaught-trust.co.uk/apply