Exeter School teams secure runners-up trophy in demanding county-wide cadet challenge
Cadets from Exeter School’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) demonstrated outstanding resilience, teamwork and leadership at the recent Tri-Service Competition held at Okehampton Camp on Dartmoor.
Competing against cadets from across Devon, including the Army Cadet Force, Royal Air Force Air Cadets, Royal Marine Cadets and Sea Cadets, Exeter School entered two teams into the challenging weekend event. Designed to test leadership, communication, problem-solving and teamwork, the competition brought together young people from different services in a demanding military-style environment.
Challenging conditions on Dartmoor
Set against the rugged backdrop of Dartmoor, Okehampton Camp provided the perfect setting for cadets to push themselves beyond their comfort zones. The challenge became even more demanding when participants awoke on Saturday morning to a yellow weather warning, with winds reaching 55mph alongside persistent rain.
Undeterred by the conditions, teams of six cadets tackled a series of eight checkpoints throughout the day. Each activity lasted 45 minutes and was assessed against a range of criteria, including leadership, communication, initiative and teamwork.
A weekend of leadership and teamwork
The varied challenges tested both practical skills and critical thinking under pressure. Tasks included:
- A road traffic collision first aid casualty scenario
- A tactical replenishment command task
- An observation challenge
- Laser shotgun shooting
- A virtual reality bomb disposal exercise
- Planning an air mobility operation for a hurricane-affected island
- A rescue scenario involving injured walkers
- A navigation exercise
Each activity required cadets to communicate effectively, adapt quickly and work together to achieve success. Throughout the competition, Exeter School’s cadets impressed assessors with their enthusiasm, determination and ability to perform under pressure.
After a demanding day, participants enjoyed a well-earned evening meal before tackling a final memory challenge. They were then given a few hours to relax and recharge ahead of Sunday’s events.
Head-to-head challenges on Sunday
The competition continued on Sunday morning with a series of fast-paced challenges. This time, teams competed directly against one another in activities including:
- A CPR race
- A water replenishment exercise
- A communication challenge
- A minefield task
As the morning progressed, rumours circulated about which teams were leading the competition. Excitement grew when both Exeter School teams were identified as strong contenders for the top positions.
Exeter School earns impressive runners-up finish
While the overall victory went to the Royal Marine Cadets, Exeter School had much to celebrate. One of the School’s teams secured an outstanding runners-up position, missing out on first place by the narrowest of margins and returning home with a well-deserved trophy.
The result reflected the hard work, preparation and commitment shown by all the cadets throughout the weekend.
Building friendships across the cadet community
Beyond the competition itself, the event provided valuable opportunities for cadets from different organisations to build friendships, share experiences and learn from one another.
The mixed-service environment encouraged collaboration and highlighted the importance of joint working, mirroring the way the Armed Forces operate together in real-world situations. It was an excellent opportunity for participants to broaden their understanding of different cadet organisations while developing lasting connections.
A proud achievement for Exeter School CCF
Every Exeter School cadet played an important role in their team’s success, whether through leadership, practical skills, encouragement or teamwork. Their professionalism, resilience and positive attitude throughout the weekend were a credit to themselves and to the School.
Congratulations to Alex, Anna, Charlie, Daniel, Dexter, Ella, Euan, Rufus, Iris, Gabriel, Rory, Malachy and Ridhwaan on an exceptional performance and for representing Exeter School with such distinction.
We are incredibly proud of everything they achieved and look forward to seeing their continued success within the CCF.
