Employers from Nottinghamshire attended a special event last week designed to help them learn more about what being an Army Cadet is all about…
Senior leaders from both the public and private sector met more than 30 young people aged between 12-18 years at the Conversation with Cadets event hosted by Nottinghamshire Army Cadet Force (ACF) at their HQ on Swiney Way, Chilwell, Nottingham.
During the event employers found out more about the training undertaken by cadets and the certificates and qualifications they can work towards including Duke of Edinburgh Awards, BTECs and First Aid badges that could help them as they progress onto further education or jobs in the future.
Attendees participated in a number of activities that included working alongside the cadets to undertake a variety of leadership and team-based exercises.
Speaking at the event, Chris Burgass, Managing Director of Burgass, manufacturers of printed carrier bags in Nottingham, explained: “I decided to attend today’s event as I wanted to meet some of the bright young people who are members of the Cadet Force in our local area. We currently employ 30 people and there are a number of young people amongst them, so I wanted to learn more about the skills that may be transferable in to the workplace via the cadets in their potential future careers.
“We had an opportunity to see and take part in a number of team-based exercises during our ACF visit including having a go at archery and learning more about First Aid. Based on what I have learnt today, I believe that the cadets’ positive attitude and experience of leadership and organisation may be beneficial to our business in the future.”
Robert Sansom, Group Chairman of the Frank Key Group also attended the event. He said: "The Army Cadets are an important part of our community. They receive training that enables them to work as individuals, but more importantly, as part of a team. This is vital both at work and in the community. We as a company support them and it is a pleasure to see them develop. "
Colonel Alan Burt, a senior adult volunteer and Commandant of Nottinghamshire ACF, said: “After the success of the event last year the Community Engagement Board believed this would once again be an ideal opportunity to showcase the skills that our young people can offer local employers.”