Life as an Army Cadet

Local MP gets an insight into Life as an Army Cadet

Army Cadets from Odsal Detachment impressed their local MP Mr Gerry Sutcliffe as they presented an evening's entertainment and insight into "Life as an Army Cadet"

Mr Sutcliffe who is also Home Office Minister in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, watched on with cadets' parents and guests from the Royal British Legion, as cadets offered information on some of the skills and activities they learn within the ACF. Demonstrations included scenarios of accidents within the home whereby cadets are taught life saving skills such as First Aid, how to get help and how to treat casualties and even resuscitate a casualty if the need arose.

Other demonstrations included Drill and Fieldcraft, an exercise the cadets mostly use when they are away on weekend camps and annual camp in the summer . Lance Bombardier Lewis Marshall's presentation for field-craft showed how the use of camouflaged clothing and cam cream breaks up the human body form when out in fields and on exercise patrols, also showing an array of other equipment either worn or carried when involved with Fieldcraft.

Mr Sutcliffe showed particular interest in the presentation given by Bombardier Ashleigh Craig regarding the Duke of Edinburgh's Award and the Cadet Vocational Qualifications which include, BTEC First Diploma in Public Services or BTEC First Diploma in Music. The enrolment for the extra qualifications are offered to Cadets 16 years old. In addition to existing Cadet Activities, Cadets are required to complete the course syllabus which includes supervised adventure training activities and occasional weekend training. All coursework is assessed by Edexcel. This internationally respected qualification is equivalent to 4 GCSEs at A*- C level and is offered free to cadets.

Mr Sutcliffe said " being MP for Bradford South I am aware of the work the local Army Cadet Force do within the area and the important role they play within the community. This evening has given me the opportunity to hear from them personally of their own achievements as an army cadet.

In the job I do, I speak to many people, some whom have negative opinions on the youth of today. However, my involvement with schools and organisation's such as this prove that given the opportunity and support, the youth of today is as respectful and motivated as it has always been, if not more so, and are a credit to themselves, their peers and parents."

The evening concluded with Mr Sutcliffe presenting a number of cadets with ACF certificates and merits of achievement and a special company plaque was presented to Mr Sutcliffe by cadet Jack Holdsworth as a thank you for his attendance on the evening and his support for Odsal Army Cadet Force.