Cadets at Yardley Chase

Following the very kind invitation from The Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, James Saunders Watson, The Honorary Col LNR, Priyesh Patel MBE DL, Commandant LNR – ACF, Col Mandy Davann and Jim Wright, a fellow Armed Forces Covenant County Chair to attend Yardley Chase, Northamptonshire last month we had the rare opportunity to go behind the wire at a Cadet training week, a unique one-off opportunity to see cadets from the Army, Sea, and Air in action.

I am delighted to report on a very worthwhile event! We were given the opportunity for Cadets to show us what they learn – and we were all suitably impressed! The skills that these young people are learning is impressive to say the least. In return the Cadets were able to interact with us employers to gain advice and insight to help them consider their futures.

Jim Wright has since advised that ‘…….Cadet Force, Cadet leaders, and the businesses and organisations that participated in the event. Despite the busy and crowded agenda, your presence and efforts made it a great success. We truly appreciate the time, outstanding effort, and commitment you have shown to our cadets.

As a result of the event, we are thrilled to report some wonderful outcomes. At least one cadet has already been promised a position in the industry he was keen to join. Additionally, one company has committed to guaranteeing an interview for any CV that lists cadet experience. Several cadets now have clearer career paths: two aspire to become doctors after speaking with the NHS, others are interested in the legal profession, engineering, motor/trucks, logistics, and building trades.

The feedback from cadets and their parents has been overwhelmingly positive. They were delighted to see our business community’s willingness to attend, advise, and support cadets in their future careers. Senior cadets realised the importance of planning their careers post-military service, thanks to the insights gained during the event.’

Well done to all involved!