Westonbirt Cadets Mark a Season of Achievement and Remembrance

14th November 2025

This term has been a particularly proud one for Westonbirt’s Combined Cadet Force, as students have demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment and respect; qualities that lie at the heart of our community.

A Historic Appointment

We were delighted to celebrate the achievement of Westonbirt student Arabella,  who has been appointed Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major for Gloucestershire Army Cadet Force. This is the most senior cadet appointment in the county and the first to be awarded since before the pandemic.

Arabella’s appointment is a source of immense pride for our community. Speaking to BBC Radio Gloucestershire, Arabella said:

“I’m so proud to have the opportunity to represent the cadets and help everyone visualise not only the people who have passed but the people who have survived.”

Arabella’s success stands as inspiration to current Westonbirt CCF cadets, illustrating the opportunities that dedication to service can bring.

Armistice Day: A Community United in Remembrance

On Tuesday, our CCF Royal Air Force Section led the school’s Armistice Day Parade, an occasion where the entire community gather to honour those who gave their lives in service to their country. The parade was led by our newly appointed Cadet Sergeant Thomas, with Arabella joining the event in her capacity as Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major for Gloucestershire Army Cadet Force.

Reflecting on the occasion, Flying Officer C. Clemow RAFAC shared:

“It is with great pride that our CCF Royal Air Force Section was joined by Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major Arabella from Gloucestershire Army Cadet Force to mark Armistice Day. The Contingent was led by our newly appointed Cadet Sergeant, and we were honoured to be joined by members of the Armed Forces who addressed students and staff. It is a credit to our student body that so many of our young people choose to take up the cadet offering in all its guises.”

A Flourishing Programme

Now entering its fourth year, Westonbirt’s CCF RAF Section continues to grow and thrive, with increasing numbers of students and staff taking part. Since September, cadets have enjoyed an exciting and varied programme, from flying experiences with RAF pilots to visits to RAF Brize Norton, where they explored the Airbus A400 transport aircraft, met flight crew and observed air traffic control operations. The cadets even participated in a practical “maths in action” session, learning about load management and fuel calculations from an RAF Loadmaster.

Further opportunities lie ahead, including the formation of a target shooting club and several weekend training activities in collaboration with other CCF contingents.

Fg Off Clemow added:

“I am incredibly grateful to our non-school staff volunteers – members of the community and parents who offer their time and energy to support the range of weekends and activities being offered this year. I look forward to forging even stronger links with other CCFs and within our wider community.”

Building Character, Honouring Service

This term has been one to remember – Arabella made history with her appointment, and our Armistice Day parade brought us all together in remembrance. These moments have shown just how special our cadet community is. At Westonbirt, the spirit of service and teamwork continues to shine, reflecting the values at the heart of our school community.