A Weekend of Leadership, Legacy, and Lasting Memories: County NCO Weekend at YCCTC
The sun may not have shone all weekend, but the spirit and energy of 126 Cadet NCOs lit up Yardley Chase Cadet Training Centre (YCCTC) in late April as Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland ACF hosted one of its most exciting County NCO Weekends yet!
This was no ordinary training weekend. It was a dynamic, high-energy, fun-filled adventure designed to develop the next generation of leaders in our County. Regimental Sergeant Major Instructor (RSMI) J Ingle and his dedicated team meticulously planned a weekend packed with activities that challenged, inspired, and entertained from start to finish.
Fun, Competition and Leadership in Action
Cadets were split into teams, each vying for the top spot on the leaderboard by tackling a series of thrilling and skill-building activities — all aimed at strengthening leadership, teamwork, communication and resilience.
Archery: Precision and focus were key, with each arrow scoring points to push teams ahead. A few Cadets showed impressive aim — perhaps some Olympic hopefuls in our midst?
Command Tasks: From knot-tying while holding the rope together, to guiding blindfolded teammates with only their voice, the cadets showed they could rise to the challenge. Though we’re proud Army Cadets, we must admit the Navy Cadets might have a slight edge on rope work!
Drill: Voice projection, clarity and commanding presence were front and centre. Each team created their own drill routine, and the results were outstanding — sharp, snappy, and executed with true military flair.
Laser Clay Shooting: With laser-precise aim, cadets tested their coordination and reflexes. The cheers from the firing line echoed across the camp as cadets hit clays (electronic) and scored big.
Old School Sports: A blast from the past brought plenty of laughs and competitive spirit as cadets went head-to-head in a series of classic schoolyard games. From the Bean Bag Relay to the ever-chaotic 4 Leg Race, each challenge tested balance, coordination, and teamwork. Cadets raced with eggs on spoons, skipped in unison, dribbled footballs through cones, and tried to keep water hats from spilling — all while aiming to rack up as many points as possible for their team. The energy was electric, and the cheers could be heard across camp as teams gave it their all in this hilarious and memorable event.
Stalking Exercise: Using tactical planning and stealth, cadets delivered casualties while neutralising threats — or becoming casualties themselves if plans didn’t quite go as intended! It was a test of teamwork, awareness, and improvisation.
Tag Archery: Arrows were flying and laughter filled the field. This fast-paced, exhilarating activity was a clear favourite, with teams dodging, diving, and displaying serious Robin Hood potential.
The Regimental Meal – A Night to Remember
Saturday night brought with it an unforgettable moment of pride and celebration — the Cadet Regimental Meal. Cadets arrived dressed to impress, and in a County tradition that turns the tables, the Adult Volunteers served the meal, showing appreciation for the young leaders of our future.
With the Cadet RSMI and Adult RSMI seated at the head of the table — both marking their final weekend in post — the meal was filled with emotion, laughter, and heartfelt pride. It was more than just dinner; it was a celebration of achievement, leadership, and community spirit. The Cadets carried themselves with dignity and pride, and the Adult Volunteers did them justice in return. It was a moment that captured everything the Army Cadets stands for.
The Journey to NCO – Earned, Not Given
To become a Cadet NCO, every individual must first pass their One Star Army Cadet Syllabus. From there, they must demonstrate consistent leadership, responsibility, and dedication — values that were clearly on show all weekend. This event was a milestone on that journey, and our cadets rose to the occasion.
A Final Parade with Passion and Pride
Sunday’s final parade was a fitting end to an extraordinary weekend — but also a deeply emotional farewell. The Cadet & Adult RSMI delivered their final addresses, fighting back tears as they expressed immense pride in all who took part and heartfelt thanks to every CFAV who made the weekend possible.
We now bid a fond farewell and the very best of luck to the Adult RSMI as he moves into his new role as Staff Officer for F Squadron. Your leadership, passion and dedication have left a legacy that will continue to inspire cadets and adults alike.
And to RSMI J Ingle — thank you. Thank you for your vision, your leadership, and the countless hours you’ve given to shape the future leaders of our County. You’ve set the standard high, and we are proud to follow in your footsteps.
And the winners were…..
Congratulations to Cadet Colour Sergeant Diyar and his team who came top trumps and were crowned the winning team.
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