A group of 31 RAF cadets from Small Health Leadership Academy visited the National Memorial Arboretum near Lichfield in October for a day of reflection, respect and remembrance. The pupils spent a day exploring the 350 memorials nestled in the beautifully tranquil Staffordshire countryside.
The arboretum, which is part of the Royal British Legion, was created 20 years ago to recognise the contribution of those who have served and sacrificed in our Armed Forces is never forgotten. It exists to provide a year- round space to celebrate lives lived and commemorate lives lost.
Ashley Dye, Assistant Principal, said:
“The pupils were a credit to the school as they attended the daily service held at 11am to pay tribute to the fallen men and women. The symbolism of key points of the arboretum was beautifully explained by the brilliant volunteers and the pupils were full of keen curiosity to understand the stories behind the engravings.”
Small Heath Leadership Academy is one of a number of Star secondary schools with its own Combined Cadet Force (CCF). There are CCF contingents in over 500 secondary schools all over the UK, offering young people
a broad range of challenging, exciting, adventurous and educational activities. Their aim is to enable the development of personal responsibility, leadership and self-discipline. Small Heath Leadership Academy’s RAF cadets, known as CCF Squadron, meet weekly and activities are led by Captain Jason Till, the school staff instructor. Earlier this year, the cadets also attended a residential weekend in North Wales where they climbed Snowdon, enjoyed some canoeing and visited the National Slate Museum. The spring and summer terms will see pupils participate in first aid, navigation skills and marching activities. Some cadets will also be given the incredible opportunity to take to the skies. Following a culmination of training, studying and preparation, pupils will have the chance to pilot a glider.