The CCF is a youth organisation supported by the Ministry of Defence with Her Majesty the Queen as its Captain General. The CCF in the United Kingdom is made up of over 250 school Contingents, the majority of which are from independent schools.

The Academy runs its own Cadet Force with Royal Navy, Army and RAF sections. The CCF is voluntary and is open to all pupils from S3 onwards. Members of staff serve as officers while senior pupils can be appointed as NCOs.

The main aim of the CCF is to train pupils to become more self-reliant and develop powers of leadership. Through CCF opportunities are offered for flying, sailing, camping, shooting, orienteering, engineering and many other activities. Adventure training and self-reliance exercises are part of the training provided. Cadets are also given the chance to travel abroad on training courses.