News

March 27th 2025

This remarkable victory marks the second consecutive year that the team has claimed the top title, a feat last achieved in 2015.

Competing against the top CCF RAF contingents from across the UK, Loughborough Grammar School’s RAF section, with cadets from both Loughborough Grammar School and Loughborough High School, demonstrated outstanding skill, teamwork, and resilience to defend their championship status.

Their stellar performance across multiple disciplines earned them the coveted national trophy, showcasing their dedication and skill.

Securing top honours 

Led by Sergeant H. Milner, the 14-member team—comprising 11 boys and 3 girls—excelled in several categories, including a first-place finish in both the new ‘Space’ category and the ‘Leadership Command Task.’

The team also secured second place in ‘First Aid’ and third place in both ‘Aircraft Recognition’ and ‘Cyber.’

Their combined results saw them clinch overall victory, overcoming fierce competition from top independent schools such as Merchant Taylors’ and George Heriot’s.

Flight Sergeant J. Straw delivered a flawless execution in the leadership and teamwork category, while Flight Sergeant J. Murray played a pivotal role in the last-minute preparation of winning material for the ‘Space’ category.

Corporal H. Buss, alongside Sergeant Milner, Flight Sergeant Straw, and Flight Sergeant Murray, showcased exceptional problem-solving skills in the challenging First Aid scenario, which required responding to a simulated mountain bike crash and an injured helicopter crew member, under testing conditions.

Air Commodore Allen Lewis had the honour of presenting the prestigious team trophy after the competition.

Leadership praise

Reflecting on the team’s historic achievement, Major Ben Ward, Contingent Commander of the CCF, expressed immense pride in their accomplishment.

He said: “I am so proud of Flight Lieutenant Smith and the cadets and staff of our RAF section; what they have achieved is remarkable!

“To have such high-quality running through our Contingent is not without sacrifice – they all work incredibly hard to set high standards amongst themselves and are an inspiring group of young people.

“Having just celebrated its 175th year, Loughborough High School is the most established academic girls’ school in the country.

“Now fully embedded in the Loughborough Grammar School Contingent, it is wonderful to see both male and female cadets thriving in this co-educational environment, working together, and learning from one another. Our RAST team are proof that anything is possible with the right mindset and a good dose of teamwork. They continue to impress us all.”

Team Captain, Sergeant Milner, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the dedication and perseverance required to retain the title, saying: “We were all so happy to win again this year.

“It feels good to become double champions and break the school record twice.

“The team worked hard over the past six months, and the win was well deserved. However, it means expectations are higher than ever for next year’s team.”

Exceptional achievement

The victorious cadets will be formally recognised for their outstanding achievements at the School’s CCF Annual Review on Saturday 3 May, where they will receive individual trophies and colours ties.

Headmaster of Loughborough Grammar School, Mr James Neville, shared his pride, saying: “This exceptional achievement is testament to the dedication, discipline, and teamwork of our cadets.

“To retain a national title is no small feat, and I could not be prouder of our students for their commitment and determination.

“Their success on this prestigious stage reflects the high standards they set for themselves and embodies the very best of what we strive for at Loughborough Grammar School.”

Head of Loughborough High School, Dr Fiona Miles, also reflected on the team’s incredible achievement. Shes said: “Our students have demonstrated remarkable resilience, leadership, and skill in securing this national victory for a second consecutive year.

“Their hard work and perseverance have been truly inspiring, and I am delighted to see them achieve such well-earned success. This accomplishment is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration and ambition.”

For more information about Loughborough Grammar School’s CCF and its achievements, head to their website.