“I joined the Army Cadets when I was 13, not really knowing what to expect. I was quite shy and kept to myself, so stepping into something completely new felt like a big move. Like a lot of people, I was looking for something different — something that would push me and give me experiences outside of school.
“At first, it was all about learning the basics. Parade nights introduced me to drill, teamwork, and structure. It took time to settle in, but it was a welcoming environment, and I gradually became more comfortable. Before long, it was something I looked forward to each week.
Key Challenges and Achievements
“Fieldcraft has been a big part of my journey. Completing my 4-star fieldcraft training is one of my proudest achievements. It challenged me physically and mentally, pushing me well outside my comfort zone. Learning to operate in the field, work as part of a section, and apply skills under pressure gave me a real sense of achievement. It wasn’t just about the skills — it was about resilience, teamwork, and staying focused when things were tough.
“Annual camps have also been some of the most memorable parts of cadets. Being away and fully immersed in that environment really shows what it’s all about. Whether it’s activities, developing skills, or just spending time with other cadets, you build strong friendships and lasting memories. There’s something about camp that brings everyone together and makes you feel part of something bigger.
“Another standout experience for me was the Senior Cadet Instructor Cadre. It was a different kind of challenge, needing determination, teamwork, and the mindset to keep going when it got difficult. Completing it felt like a real milestone and made me realise how much I’d developed since I first joined.
Confidence, Skills and Personal Growth
“Looking back, the biggest change has been my confidence. When I joined, I would never have imagined speaking in front of others or taking on responsibility. Through cadets, I’ve built that over time — working in teams, contributing ideas, and helping others. It didn’t happen overnight, but those small steps made a big difference.
“Cadets has also given me life skills beyond the activities themselves. Discipline, communication, and leadership have become part of how I approach things. It’s not just about parade nights or camps — it’s about how those experiences shape you as a person.
“For anyone thinking about joining, I’d say you don’t need to be confident or experienced to start. Cadets helps you develop that. You might join for one reason, but you’ll gain much more — it’s about pushing yourself, trying new things, and being part of a supportive team.
“Looking back to when I joined at 13, I can see how much I’ve changed. What started as something new and a bit intimidating has become an important part of my life. The experiences, challenges, and people have all played a role in that. Being a cadet isn’t just about the activities — it’s about growth, confidence, and becoming part of something that genuinely makes a difference.”