Cheltenham College Combined Cadet Force (CCF) has a history which started in 1862 with the founding of the Volunteer Rifle Corps, and we have enjoyed a long and close association with the Armed Forces ever since.

The Combined Cadet Force aims to develop in young people the qualities of discipline, self-reliance and leadership which in the modern world are the utmost importance whatever career a boy or girl may choose. Therefore, it is vital and integral part of the education which College offers. It provides a means to help youngsters to know themselves; it teaches leadership, team spirit and qualities of good citizenship, and provides adventure and challenge. A pupil may or may not be the greatest success in the classroom or on the playing field; but all can, and often do, achieves success in the Corps in one aspect or another.

In order to experience the wealth of opportunities in the CCF, all Fourth Form pupils are members for at least one year, and those who come to College in the Lower Sixth are also very welcome to join.

There are sections representing each of the three services: Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force. They are enthusiastically guided by officers who are full time members of the teaching staff while holding commissions in their respective Volunteer Reserves. The Contingent Commander is Major Richard Penny, formerly of The Queen's Royal Hussars. Full time co-ordination of the CCF staff, cadets and activities is in the capable hands of the School Staff Instructor (SSI) Warrant Officer 2 (QMSI) Jason Gwynne formerly of The Army Physical Training Corps and The King's Royal Hussars.