Last month, pupils in the Oratory CCF Royal Navy section travelled to HMS Collingwood, the Royal Navy’s largest training establishment, to tackle the Base’s Low-Ropes challenge.

The Low-Ropes course is a familiar part of naval and cadet training as the obstacles are designed to test not only stamina and endurance but also teamwork and problem-solving skills. The only way to successfully tackle the challenges was for pupils to work together and make mistakes, so the whole team learnt the best way to successfully complete the task. In addition, it provided a safe and fun environment where pupils learnt the importance of employing universal health and safety principals to keep every member of their team safe and productive.

Some of the challenges evoked specific naval traditions, for example the bosun’s chair which can only be successfully maneuvered by other team members, whilst other obstacles demanded more general skills.

Our Oratory cadets worked exceptionally well as a team, especially considering the wide range of ages taking part, from 13-17 years-old.

Cadet E. Bowers thoroughly enjoyed the Low-Ropes Challenge, saying, “I’ve never done anything like this before - it’s been really good fun. My grandfather, who sadly passed away recently, was an officer in the Royal Navy and it’s something I’m considering too.”

E. Bower's comments were echoed by Cadet F. South who explained, “This challenge has been a great experience. It has not only taught us team-building skills (you soon realise you can’t work alone on this!), it has also made our friendships stronger. It’s been a really great day!”