With traditional military training grounds being used to prepare Ukrainian soldiers, finding a suitable location for cadet training has become increasingly challenging. That’s where Tangier Wood comes in.

We had the opportunity to visit this fantastic training facility near Crowborough, and it’s clear why it has become a go-to destination for cadet forces. Offering bespoke training packages across its 10-acre woodland, Tangier Wood is dedicated to providing a comprehensive training experience for cadets.

A Unique Setting for Cadet Development

Tangier Wood is run by Jordan and Jodie, a dedicated husband and wife team. Jordan, a former WO2 Grenadier Guardsman, brings over two decades of military experience to the table, while Jodie’s background in corporate London and qualifications in Sustainable Woodland Management and Social Forestry have been instrumental in transforming the woodland. Since acquiring the property in 2016, they’ve worked tirelessly to regenerate the native tree species and natural habitats, creating a unique training environment that blends military precision with environmental stewardship.

Currently, Tangier Wood collaborates with over 20 CCF units from a diverse range of schools across the UK. The site offers a flexible range of training programmes, allowing Contingent Commanders and SSIs to tailor activities to meet the specific needs of their cadet units. Whether it’s fieldcraft and tactics, team and leadership development, or more specialised skills like survival training and axe-throwing, Tangier Wood provides a versatile platform for cadet training.

A Day of Leadership and Team Development

During our time at Tangier Wood, we joined cadets from the Royal Grammar School Guildford CCF, who were engaged in a day of team and leadership development. It was inspiring to see the cadets demonstrate core values such as teamwork, resilience, and leadership across various activities. From structured team-building exercises to hands-on tasks cadets were fully immersed in their training, it looked like a lot of fun too!

A Range of Tailored Activities

One of the standout features of Tangier Wood is the variety of activities available, which can be customised to suit the needs of each cadet unit. Some of the key offerings include:

• Fieldcraft and Tactics: Cadets can develop essential skills such as navigation, movement, and camouflage, which are crucial for any field operation.
• Survival Skills: Training covers everything from fire lighting to advanced food preparation techniques, such as deer skinning.
• Team and Leadership Development: Exercises designed to build communication, collaboration, and leadership capabilities.
• Axe-Throwing: A unique activity that not only tests precision but also serves as an engaging way to build focus and control.

These activities not only enhance cadets’ practical skills but also encourage personal growth and confidence, making Tangier Wood a comprehensive training ground for developing well-rounded cadets.

Conclusion: A Valuable Resource for Cadet Forces

Tangier Wood offers a well-rounded and accessible training facility that is dedicated to supporting the development of cadet forces. Whether you’re looking for a venue to conduct intensive fieldcraft training or a site that offers a mix of leadership and survival skills, Tangier Wood has it covered.

For more information or to arrange a visit, contact Jodie and Jordan through their website. We highly recommend this fantastic facility for any cadet unit looking to enhance their training programme.