Being a Master Cadet
CDT SSGT NEVIN NICE
How challenging did you find the Master Cadet course?
Without doubt it was one of the toughest things I’ve ever done, mentally and physically. I pushed myself to limits I wasn’t aware I was capable of, and although it was incredibly challenging, I’ve learnt so much about myself. The camaraderie and effort in my section was noteworthy in just getting all of us to the finish line. The fact was we beat all the other sections in Ex SAFARI PARK.
Do you feel proud of successfully completing the course?
It was the pinnacle of my Cadets journey so far. While I aim to go much further with commitment, completing it signifies I’m at the highest level of training available as a cadet. I’m so proud to be quoted out of my comfort zone and spending a week with 39 strangers (many of whom are now great friends!) in challenging conditions to prove myself as a Master Cadet.
What made you join the Army Cadets?
From about Year 4, I’d see the boys marching up and down in uniform after school. I asked about it, got handed a leaflet, and as soon as I was old enough, I was in! The best decision I’ve ever made: joining the school, perhaps unknowingly, began a lifelong move into a defence-oriented career path.
What skills have you learnt?
Independence, discipline, mental resilience and leadership skills. I didn’t realise how intense the Master Cadet Course would be. I learnt a lot more about myself. I’m certainly intending to apply this to all aspects of my life in the future.
How will you utilise those skills?
In terms of my future path, I’m looking to join the Reserves. I think it takes a high level of mental resilience. I think that the values, skills and strength I’ve developed are going to help me get there.
Have you changed since joining the Army Cadets?
Absolutely. I am a lot better at leadership thanks to the values and methods of how we’re taught in the Army Cadets. I have also become much more confident. That will stand me in good stead for the leadership opportunities I now have, both within my school and outside.
STAFF CDT RSM FINLAY HARRIS
How did you train for the Master Cadet course?
I didn’t do any specific training. However, my cadet career to date has been good preparation. A combination of Senior Cadet Instructor Cadre (SCIC), numerous field training exercises and my leadership experience equipped me for the course.
What was the best part of the Master Cadet course?
Seeing my section progress, improve and develop throughout the course, culminating in a platoon attack where I was the 2IC. I saw them mesh as a team and work together brilliantly.
What was the most challenging aspect?
Performing my personal skills and drills well, but also hearing the integrity and self-discipline not to let them slip below standard when I was physically and mentally exhausted on exercise.
Why did you join the Army Cadets?
One of my school friends had joined six months earlier and talked me into going. On top of that, my dad joined as an adult instructor at the same time. He’d been in the RAF and Army Reserve, so I’d already been exposed to a military lifestyle.
After I’d been on a couple of nights and found out what it was all about, I was hooked!
What have you learnt?
Lots! Discipline, integrity, all the values and standards, along with practical skills like fieldcraft and drill. Also transferable skills such as navigation, and I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to be outdoors.
How will you make the most of what you’ve learnt?
I’ll probably join the Army, but if I don’t, I’ll be back as an adult instructor to pass skills on to the next generation of cadets.
What was your perception of the Army Cadets before you joined?
I thought it was a place to hang out with your mates and while that is the case, I now think it’s more than that. It helps to focus you and turns you into a completely different person.
A Parent’s Perspective
Johanna Warren, mother of SSgt Harrison Warren of Gwent & Powys ACF
What led your son Harrison to join the Army Cadets?
A friend of his was in the Army Cadets, so Harrison joined when he was old enough. I was slightly intrigued he’d take to it – he’s already an astute young man, and he’s changed so much as a result.
What difference have you seen in him?
I’ve seen him grow in confidence and have pride in himself, and his self-esteem has improved massively, especially after the long break enforced by Covid-19. He went back to the Army Cadets and kept it up, and he’s excelled.
Has your perception of the Army Cadets changed since your son joined?
I didn’t really know much about it. The Army Cadets helped him develop a resilience I never thought he had. It encourages children on all levels and gives them huge opportunities.
What would you say to other parents whose children want to join the Army Cadets?
Encourage them! Find someone within the detachment who’s going to support your child the way SSgt J. Hall helped Harrison when he started. There was no asking of whether he really looked up to and who supported him a lot, and gave him the confidence to stick with it.
Going Further as a Master Cadet
The Master Cadet is the highest-level course a cadet can attend and involves activities such as fieldcraft and drill.
Established in 1981, the aim of the course is to broaden and develop the leadership, instructional and administrative abilities of 4-star cadets, opening up more opportunities for them to use their newfound skills within the Army Cadets. In many respects, this is the culmination of their cadet careers.
To be awarded Master Cadet, the cadet must have:
- Successfully completed 4-star
- Held the rank of Cdt Sgt
- Be at least 16 years old