The focus of the weekend was on leadership styles, understanding feelings and emotions, how to communicate and self-awareness. The cadets heard firsthand about the experiences of the Senior Officers and Adults within the county on their journeys to become leaders and they were shown how to access a host of courses available to them, outside of the county.
S/Sgt Mia Andrews (16) from Torrington Detachment said “I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised by the whole weekend. It gave us the chance to have open and honest discussions with Officers and hear, first-hand, their experiences. We were treated as equals, with a genuine interest in our opinions and views.” She continues ” I was excited to hear the plans for senior cadets with new opportunities, challenges and trips, including leadership adventure training in Canada, CCAT camps, DofE, Master Cadet and various courses
The cadre is the brainchild of County Commandant, Colonel Steve Frost and he says” The main purpose is to develop the cadet's leadership potential. On the weekend they all created a personal development plan, which will be reviewed every six months. It is hoped that as a by-product, it will improve the retention of our senior cadets.”
Sgt Abi HollyOake (16) from Mutley Detachment said “ I didn’t know what to expect from the weekend, so I was relieved to find it was quite relaxed. Writing my development plan has helped me to focus on what it is that I would really like to achieve with the rest of my time in the ACF”.
Cpl Daniel McDougall (15) from Uffculme Detachment said “ I really enjoyed the weekend and will use the information given to me, to help me develop and grow as a leader. It was also fun to be working with like-minded peers.”
Plans are firmly underway for more weekends next year, which will include a mess dinner for the cadets and talks are being held with 6 Rifles with regards to holding an advanced fieldcraft weekend specifically for the senior cadets in the County.
Watch this space for more news about the Red Star Cadre
