Meet Sgt Emily Rees: Building Confidence, Friendships and Future Leaders at 15 Platoon, Theale

What transforms a shy 12-year-old into a confident young leader? Meet Sgt Emily Rees and discover how 15 Platoon Theale helps young people realise their potential.

A Welcoming Community in the Heart of Theale

Many young people are looking for a challenge. They also want to build confidence and make lasting friendships. At 15 Platoon, Theale Detachment, those opportunities are available every week.

Based at Theale Green School, the detachment offers local young people aged 12–18 the chance to develop practical skills, leadership experience and confidence, all while being part of a welcoming and supportive team.

What makes Theale stand out is its strong sense of community. Cadets and volunteers work together to create an environment where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their background, interests or future ambitions.

More Than Just Army Cadets

“One of the biggest misconceptions about the Army Cadet Force is that you need to be interested in joining the Army,” explains Detachment Commander Sergeant Emily Rees. “That simply isn’t the case. Cadets join for many different reasons and gain skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.”

Parade nights are packed with activity. From first aid and fieldcraft to leadership exercises, problem solving and air rifle training, no two evenings are the same. Cadets are encouraged to challenge themselves, learn new skills and work as part of a team.

The Power of Friendship and Belonging

Cadets build friendships that are just as important as the skills they learn. Many cadets arrive knowing nobody and quickly become part of a close-knit team. Shared experiences, challenges and achievements help cadets form friendships that often last for years.

The friendships and support network built through cadets are often unlike anything young people have experienced before. Through teamwork, shared challenges and a strong sense of belonging, cadets learn to support one another and celebrate each other’s successes.

Opportunities That Build Skills for Life

The opportunities extend far beyond weekly training. Cadets can take part in competitions, leadership courses, adventurous training and even international exchanges. Berkshire Army Cadets’ Norway Exchange Programme gives cadets the chance to experience another country and culture, while many achieve nationally recognised qualifications including First Aid at Work and ILM Leadership awards.

Leadership development is at the heart of the cadet experience. Whether leading teams on exercises, teaching younger cadets, competing in first aid competitions or taking responsibility within the detachment, young people develop skills that will serve them well in education, employment and everyday life.

Meet Sgt Emily Rees

Sergeant Rees, who spent five years as a cadet before becoming an Adult Volunteer, remains passionate about developing both herself and the young people she supports. In May, she successfully completed her Adult Leadership and Management (ALM) qualification, further strengthening the skills she brings to her role as a Detachment Commander.

For Emily, one of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering is seeing cadets achieve their own goals. Recently, one of her cadets completed the Junior Cadet Instructor Course, was named Best Cadet and received promotion to Corporal.

It’s regular to see once shy 12-year-olds blossom into confident, mature young adults who are ready for their next challenge in life.

Celebrating Volunteers’ Week

As Volunteers’ Week shines a spotlight on the people who give their time to support young people, Sergeant Rees represents the dedication shown by Cadet Force Adult Volunteers across Berkshire. Every year, their commitment helps hundreds of young people grow in confidence, learn new skills and achieve more than they thought possible.

The success of 15 Platoon is made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers who freely give their time to support the next generation. Their enthusiasm, commitment and encouragement help create an environment where young people can thrive.