I started my career as a cadet in 2008 which was unavoidable with parents who were cadets themselves. I was heavily involved in the National Marching and Concerts bands where I performed at some incredible events such as at a Buckingham Palace garden party, Disneyland Paris, the Eiffel Tower and HMS Victory. I concluded my time as a cadet in 2015 as a CWO and Lord Lieutenant's Cadet for Essex Wing. I went off to University to study Primary Education so continued my RAFAC career as a CI but in 2019 I completed my Officer Initial Course as I returned to Essex. I was offered the opportunity to take command of 308 (City of Colchester) Squadron in August 2021
My highlight
In 2014, I was fortunate enough to be selected to be part of the Essex Wing expedition to Iceland to complete my Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. It was incredible being able to explore the geothermic elements the country had to offer as part of our aim as well as experiencing the incredible landscapes.
The expedition inspired me to explore the DofE scheme further and I decided to complete my Lowland Expedition Leader Award and become a DofE Assessor to be able to support expeditions for other cadets in the future.
In 2020, I took on the role as Essex Wing DofE Officer and was able to provide an expedition to almost 350 cadets during my 2 years in post. Although I am now Officer Commanding at 308 (City of Colchester) Squadron, my favourite activity to support within the RAFAC is most certainly the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.
Are you interested in joining Air Cadets as a volunteer? Please see more information and how to get in touch with a unit near you in this dedicated volunteer section on our website.