Celebrating Cadet Excellence: The British Citizen Award

What is the British Citizen Award?

The British Citizen Award (BCA) is a distinguished honour open to UK citizens, recognising exceptional endeavour across a wide range of fields – from community service and healthcare to education, the arts, business, recreation, and charitable giving. Nominees—both adults and young people under 18—receive their accolades at prestigious ceremonies held at the Palace of Westminster: adults in January and July, and youth groups in October. Recipients are even encouraged to use post-nominal letters after their name, celebrating their achievement for life.

What is the British Citizen Youth Award?

This award recognises the individual endeavours of young people who are positively impacting their communities, helping charities or undertaking exceptional activities in support of others.  Across the UK, people are showing kindness and caring to others, but often without the recognition it deserves. The British Citizen Youth Award understands that there is no age limit to selfless acts of kindness. That’s why the British Citizen Youth Award Medal of Honour has been created for those aged under 18. Young people are the key to our future for making our society and communities a better place to live.

Why the Army Cadets Should Nominate

As part of the Army Cadets, we regularly witness the incredible dedication and leadership of cadets and adult volunteers. Whether it’s delivering community initiatives, mentoring peers, fundraising for good causes, or leading by example during training. The BCA offers a unique opportunity to showcase its impact on a national stage, alongside inspiring UK citizens from all sectors.

How to Submit a Nomination

Nominating is simple and completely free. Cadets, detachments or adult volunteers can put forward deserving colleagues by completing the ACCT UK Excellence Award nomination form and emailing it to awards@acctuk.org. ACCT UK coordinates the nomination process, supporting your submission to strengthen its success.

Key Deadlines:

• October 2025 youth presentations – by 7 August 2025
• January 2026 adult presentations – by 7 October 2025
• July 2026 adult presentations – by 7 April 2026
• October 2026 youth presentations – by 7 August 2026

Confirmation of timeline aside, early submission ensures optimum support and preparation.

A Cadet’s Journey to National Recognition

Being nominated for the BCA is more than recognition—it’s an affirmation of your values, leadership, and selfless contribution. From supporting local charities to organising band concerts, mentoring peers to trailblazing social initiatives, the Army Cadets exemplify what the BCA stands for: meaningful change and community enhancement. Let’s celebrate each other and inspire the next generation.

The British Citizen Award is our nation’s way of recognising extraordinary individuals. Step forward, nominate those who lead by example, and let the Army Cadets’ passion and excellence shine at Westminster.