Every year, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Awards appoint a select group of exceptional cadets from across the UK, where they will serve in a year-long role acting as Lord-Lieutenant’s ambassadors. Recognised for their outstanding dedication, achievements, community service and exemplary service within their contingents, the chosen cadets showcase the very best of the cadet forces. The prestigious appointment is one of the highest honours a cadet can receive, with the winners accompanying the Lord Lieutenant at various events and undertaking numerous responsibilities throughout the year, with the position often including the chance to meet members of the Royal Family.
The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is extremely proud to announce that Cadet Sergeant William T, Barnard Castle School CCF has been awarded His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Cadet for County Durham.
Chosen for his remarkable teamwork and leadership skills and tenacity, WO2 Harbottle, School Staff Instructor, Barnard Castle School CCF comments “Cadet Sergeant William has been successful in his application to be one of His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for County Durham. This is a prestigious role, which he was chosen for because of his outstanding capabilities, commitment and leadership qualities. During his appointment, Cadet Sergeant William will escort the Lord Lieutenant of County Durham on official duties, representing the school and the wider Cadet Force community. He will also be the eighth Barnard Castle School CCF cadet to be appointed into this role, which highlights the importance of being a CCF cadet here at Barnard Castle School. Our school, contingent and wider school family would like to congratulate Cadet Sergeant William on his outstanding achievements.”
We recently sat down with Cadet Sergeant William to find out about what he is most looking forward to during his time as Lord Lieutenant Cadet.
CCF: Congratulations on your award! How did it feel when you found out you had won?
Cadet Sergeant William: Thank you! I was both shocked and then thrilled when I received the letter at home.
What do you think helped to set you apart and win?
I was put forward for the award because I take every opportunity that the CCF offers – from parade days, range days, field training and brigade competitions, I try to take part in everything I can. I have also been undergoing leadership training, and I believe that doing this and a range of co-curricular activities whilst having a goal in mind for the future gave me a competitive edge in setting me apart to win the award.
What are you most excited about in your new role as the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet?
I’m most looking forward to attending the various ceremonies and military events.
What does the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet role involve?
My role is to be an ambassador for the CCF and involves assisting the Lord Lieutenant who is representing His Majesty The King whilst on official duties in County Durham.
How does it feel to be representing your school at national level with such a prestigious title?
It is a huge honour, and I’m committed to upholding the values and standards of both the Combined Cadet Force and Barnard Castle School.
How do you think this role and being a CCF cadet will benefit you once you finish school?
I believe my experience as a cadet within the CCF will help to show future employers that I have both leadership and teamwork capabilities that can help me to secure future jobs. I aspire to go to the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst for Officer Training, with the aim being to become an Officer within the Royal Engineers.
And what do you enjoy most about being a CCF cadet?
The experience of being on exercises and trying new things. I’ve been able to develop my skills as both a team member and a leader. There are challenges too – decision making in a leadership position can be tough when the answer is not clear and others are relying on you. Outside of school and the CCF, I love playing Rugby and Cricket and I represent my school and local clubs in both sports. I enjoy running and hiking with my friends and I enjoy spending time on our family farm, where we care for sheep.
After everything you have achieved, what advice would you give to anyone thinking about becoming a CCF cadet?
I’d tell them to just try it – the CCF provides many opportunities to challenge yourself whilst also allowing you to develop your confidence and resilience, teamwork and communication skills. It is adventurous, challenging and enjoyable!
Congratulations to Cadet Sergeant William on this incredible honour. We can’t wait to see what you get up to over the next year, during your time as the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for County Durham.