We were proud to recently hear of some successes with Northgate students who are part of 1249 Dereham Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets. They held an annual presentation evening where Dereham Town Mayor Cllr Ray O’Callaghan and Cllr Hugh King handed out trophies and awards.
Congratulations to Amelia B (Year 10) who won Best Junior Cadet and was promoted from Cadet to Corporal. She said, ‘I feel very happy and grateful that I got chosen for the award. I enjoy the activities and learning things that I wouldn’t in school. I have developed skills like communication and leadership during my time at cadets.’
Congratulations also to James A (Year 11) who won the award for Best effort in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and was also promoted from Cadet to Corporal.
Congratulations to Malachi B (Year 11) who was promoted from Corporal to Sergeant.
Final, congratulations to Jude B (Year 10) who won the Cadets’ Cadet Award and the Tracey Allan Shield as well as being promoted from Corporal to Sergeant.
Jude answered some questions related to his experiences in the Air Cadets.
When did you first join the Air Cadets, and what made you want to sign up?
I joined cadets two years ago during the autumn term, after my old football team disbanded. I was in search of something that would not only capture my attention but also my devotion. Similar to football I was welcomed to the cadets “team” as soon as I stepped through the door, cadets also offered more opportunities for my future.
What new responsibilities do you now have as a Sergeant that you didn’t have as a Corporal?
Since being promoted from Corporal to Sergeant in the Air Cadets, I now have greater leadership responsibilities. I support and supervise junior cadets, help lead training activities, and ensure standards are maintained. I am also expected to set a positive example, make decisions more independently, and assist in the smooth running of the squadron.
Which skills have you developed the most during your time in the Cadets?
Teaching. I was given the role of teaching the new T-flight from the September entry, although I was second in command, I found myself taking more responsibility in this role teaching myself at the same time, in terms of classroom management and learning, but also leadership and confidence in front of an audience.
What’s been your proudest moment in the Air Cadets so far?
My proudest moment was when I had the opportunity to go flying. Once up in the air with the pilot, I was given control and had the chance to perform aerobatics by myself, including a loop, multiple barrel rolls and a stall turn. This was the proudest moment for me because I was given the controls and overcame the fear and did it anyway.
Do you have any future goals within the Air Cadets?
As for further goals I only aspire to teach and help others gain the opportunity I have so they too, can find themselves learning new skills and develop their personalities, that will not only help now but for their future as well.
What qualities do you think make a good Sergeant?
I think there are many factors a SGT should bring to the squadron but here’s a few:
- Leadership – able to guide, motivate, and support others.
- Responsibility – reliable and accountable for actions and decisions
- Communication – gives clear instructions and listens to others.
- Confidence – able to take charge when needed without being overbearing.
- Teamwork – works well with staff and other cadets.