Shooting is open to anyone in the School. The range weapons and ammunition are provided by the Ministry of Defence and weapons training forms part of the basic CCF programme. However, target shooting on the College's indoor 25 metre range is an activity that is available to all pupils, whether or not they are members of the CCF contingent.
There are four stages within the individual's training:
- Stage 1 introduction to the Weapons' Safety Rules and the handling of weapons. Firing the weapons in the supported position at simple Bull targets;
- Stage 2 firing ten rounds at a Three-Bull target, using a sling. This can initially be a painful experience, particularly on the wrist and upper arm which support the weapon. This is the most difficult phase for the firer to get used to. For some it can be completed at the first attempt, but most require three or more attempts;
- Stage 3 this is when the firer becomes proficient in firing the weapons using the sling. It is at this stage that a firer's ability to score as many points out of 100 is noted;
- Stage 4 the selection of the School Shooting Team now takes place, from those who can average 95 on a Five-Bull card and approximately 91 on a Ten-Bull card.
Competitions the School is involved in various national shooting competitions, and for a five year period (1992-97) we were placed in the Top Five Schools in Britain; indeed twice we were the Top School (1992 and 1993). We also have pupils who are selected to shoot for the Scottish National Team.
