Essex army cadet force adventure training Exercise annual camp 2021
23rd July – 4th Aug 2021
During COVID 19, the ACF had become a virtual world, and Adventure training had been put on hold Exercise Annual Camp 2021 has given us the chance to re-launch Adventure training, and with the support of the Ulysses Trust grant, we can fulfil this to its full potential to the Cadets With the support of the Ulysses Trust, we can give 270 cadets a fantastic day of Kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding and trail biking which is so very much needed after being in lockdown. Adventure training is always the highlight for many cadets on camp; it enables them to undertake an activity they would not typically be involved in and opens their eyes to a broader range of enjoyable opportunities within the Cadet force. As a physical activity, it also pushes them a little harder to make a physical effort whilst having great fun at the same time.
The Exercise is being held at the Alton Water Reservoir in Suffolk, which is a fantastic location for the Kayaking and SUP which will be operating out of the Water sports centre and the Biking as a trail that goes all the way around the reservoir.
This location is the perfect environment for Cadets to gain new experiences and develop self-confidence. The water-based sessions include basic water skills and techniques, some boat-based games and the inevitable accidental capsizing, which always ends in huge smiles and the question ‘can I do that again.’. Biking encompasses skills sessions, fun activities whilst navigating around the reservoir.
Our cadets said;
LCpl Hurley from Warley detachment commented by saying that the adventure training day was ‘great fun, it was exciting, and I learnt new skills’
Cpl Sherman said, ‘I was not very good at the paddling, but I enjoyed it’ she commented on how good the equipment was and the great location’ and looked forward to being able to go on the week-long adventure training camp ‘Exercise Itchyfoot’ next year in the peak district.
Cadets of all levels have taken on the actives in the rain and shine with enthusiasm and energy; it has been fantastic to see the Cadets get back to some adventure and challenging activities
It has been an unforgettable Exercise to see all the Cadets back out enjoying themselves, and this is thanks to the Ulysses Trust, so thank you.
