Forces Children Scotland 1 day ago
Happy National Cadets Week!
This is the first-ever National Cadets Week, running 5-11 October. It’s a chance to celebrate cadets across the UK: what they contribute to their communities, and what the Cadet Forces offers them in return.
For many young people from Forces families, the Cadets is an opportunity to build their own connection with the Armed Forces, while gaining confidence, leadership skills and a sense of belonging along the way.
We asked young people for their favourite memories from the Cadets. Here’s what they shared with us.
Ella:
“My favourite memory from my cadet career is definitely annual camp this year, where I met so many different cadets from all over Scotland and the Highlands. It’s just a great experience that I hope every cadet can have one day. I have gained quite a few skills while being a cadet. My first aid has definitely improved. I know I’ve gained a lot of communication skills, loads of skills for being out in the field, and if I get stuck anywhere. I’ve definitely made loads of friends in the cadets, from all over Scotland and all around. And honestly, being a cadet is such an amazing experience that I wish I could share with everyone.”
Oliver:
Favourite memory: “Being able to play with the national pipes and drums at Balmoral and the Braemar Gathering.”
What he’s gained: “Being able to use teamwork and leadership in different situations.”
Ruthie:
“My favourite memory was when I went on my first Air Experience Flying. It was amazing to see the view from the sky.
I have gained more confidence in communicating with others. I have learned new things including flying and gliding. I enjoyed going to camping and meet other Cadets from different Squadrons. It builds our bonding and friendships.”
Alex:
“I joined the Sea Cadets at 10 years old in 2018 as a junior cadet and worked my way up to Petty Officer Cadet before aging and becoming an adult volunteer. I went on a number of different courses including different boating courses, marine engineering, first aid and drill along with district, area and national level competitions and Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. Cadets has always been a big part of my life from when I first joined as I made friendships with people I otherwise would have never met from all over the country.
Across the eight years I had as a cadet, there are so many experiences, from getting my first sailing experience to representing my unit at the 2024 National Trafalgar Day Parade that it is hard to pick a favourite moment, as all of those experiences have led me to who I am. But what I am most proud of is being able to reach the highest rank of Petty Officer cadet before aging out as it allowed me to give my knowledge to the next generation of cadets.”
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