New uniform for Christ’s Hospital Army Cadets

It is the first time significant changes have been made to the cadets’ uniform in more than 30 years.

The cadets have adopted the army’s new Multi-Terrain Pattern (MTP) uniforms, replacing a green pattern uniform originally adopted by the British Army in the 1960s.

The newly designed material compromises seven different colours compared to the current four and is designed to provide effective camouflage across many different types of terrain.

The newly-issued cap badge returns the uniform to its historical roots, reproducing a design worn by the cadet force when it was first established at the School in 1904. The new metal insignia replaces an embroidered badge that the Christ’s Hospital cadets have worn since the 1980s.

The new uniform includes a number of improved design features. Angled pockets on the arms and legs facilitate access to equipment, while fur lined jacket pockets allow hands to be kept warm in inclement weather.

Zippable air flaps provide better regulation of body temperature in hot weather or during periods of hard training. Velcro shoulder patches replace brassards for the cadets to display their qualification badges.

Lieutenant Peter Andersen, Head of the Army Section at Christ’s Hospital commented: “The army cadets have always been very proud of their uniforms, but there has been a definite rise in espirit de corps following the issue of the new kit. It is a very comfortable and practical uniform to wear, and a test of the new camouflage in the School’s woodland has proved it to be highly effective”.

“I am glad that we have been able to readopt our original Christ’s Hospital cap badges ahead of the unit’s 110 year anniversary coming up in 2014”, he added.

One-hundred and sixty students are currently members of the CCF at Christ’s Hospital, divided between the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force sections. It offers a challenging and fun programme of military and adventure training to those in Year 9 and above.

Report and picture submitted by Christ’s Hospital