Our First International Cadet Exchange Camp 2024

Over the month of July, cadets and adult volunteers from Canada, Estonia, India, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland were invited to experience the British Army Cadet way of life. Brigadier Gary McDade, Deputy Commander Cadets, encapsulated the programme's spirit, expressing the hope that participants will be inspired to achieve great things while forming lifelong friendships and cultural understanding.

Week One: Exploring Cultural Treasures

The first week of the exchange was dedicated to cultural immersion. Upon arrival, cadets were divided into two groups. Group 1, comprising of cadets from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, began their journey in London. Group 2, with cadets from Canada, India, and Poland, started in Frimley, Surrey.

London’s Historic Wonders

London, the bustling heart of the UK, welcomed the cadets with open arms. Their first day was a whirlwind tour of iconic landmarks, starting with the Tower of London. As they walked through this ancient fortress, the cadets were enthralled by stories of its dark past, where notable figures met their end, and its current role as a home for the Crown Jewels.

From there, they embarked on a bus tour that offered glimpses of St. Paul’s Cathedral and Charing Cross. The walking tour that followed was equally captivating, taking them through Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, Downing Street, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and Big Ben.

Cultural Experiences in Surrey

In Surrey, the cadets experienced a different side of British culture at the Cadet Training Centre, Frimley Park. The days were filled with activities like archery, laser clay shooting, and STEM projects, designed to challenge their skills and foster teamwork. Cadets also during their time in Surrey visited the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, where all British Army Officers are trained alongside many international cadets from across the globe. The highlight of the cultural week was undoubtedly the special dinner at the House of Lords, a rare honour that left a lasting impression on every participant.

Week Two: Military Training in Scotland

The adventure continued as the cadets travelled north to Scotland for a week of military training. The Scottish landscape, with its rugged beauty, provided the perfect backdrop for this phase of the programme.

Embracing Army Cadet Training

Barry Buddon Camp, steeped in history, became a training ground where cadets engaged in various military activities. Each activity was designed to instil discipline, teamwork, and resilience, from paintballing and navigation exercises to fieldcraft and shooting. The cadets also had the chance to explore the natural beauty of Scotland, with a visit to Glamis Castle offering a glimpse into the country's rich heritage.

Week Three: Adventure Training in Wales and the Lake District

The final week was all about adventure and pushing personal boundaries. Depending on their group, cadets headed either to Capel Curig Training Camp in Snowdonia, North Wales, or Halton Training Camp near Lancaster, close to the Lake District.

Thrilling Outdoor Activities

Both locations offered an array of thrilling activities. In Snowdonia, cadets could conquer the heights of Wales' tallest mountains and navigate the serene waters while stand-up paddleboarding or canoeing. Those in the Lake District faced the challenge of climbing Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, and exploring the depths of caves and mines.

While at Capel Curig, Col Catherine Jardine said: "I'm out here in North Wales visiting the third week of the International Exchange. They've already been to London for a week, they went to Scotland, and now they're here doing events training. Today, I visited some of the cadets who were on the water doing canoeing and paddle boarding. We also had cadets doing walking, climbing and mountain biking, who had a fantastic time. Speaking to the cadets and the adult volunteers, they've enjoyed their time here despite the weather thrown at them. They've had a wonderful visit, and the three weeks have flown by for them, but they've enjoyed it."

Building Lifelong Skills

These activities were more than just fun; they allowed cadets to develop resilience, leadership, and a sense of adventure. Whether navigating through dark caves or paddling through tranquil waters, each experience was a step towards personal growth and achievement.

A Farewell to Remember

The cadets gathered for a farewell ceremony as the three-week programme drew to a close. It was a moment of reflection on the friendships forged, the skills learned, and the memories made.

"Welcoming international cadets to the UK is more than just an exchange of experiences; it’s an exchange of cultures, values, and perspectives. This programme embodies our commitment as a youth organisation to fostering global understanding and unity. By bringing together young leaders from different backgrounds, we not only enrich their personal development but also build a foundation for future cooperation and friendship across borders. These connections are invaluable, not just for the cadets, but for the future of our global community." - Brigadier Gary McDade

The International Cadet Exchange Programme was not just a series of activities but a journey of discovery, camaraderie, and personal growth. The cadets left the UK with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired to achieve great things both as cadets and in their future endeavours.