Cookstown cadets recognised for Public Services

Daniel Thom, and brothers Alan and Stephen Lawrence - all from Cookstown - were delivered the internationally respected qualification via the Cadet Vocational Qualification Organisation (CVQO).

The qualification mixes theory and practical elements with an emphasis on leadership, teamwork, communications, problem solving and fitness.

The syllabus includes professional CV preparation, interviewing techniques, communication, first aid, adventure training, health and nutrition.

Congratulating the recipients from across Northern Ireland, Colonel Sir Donal Keegan KCVO OBE, President of the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association for Northern Ireland, said: “Membership of the Cadet movement has always helped young people to acquire a diverse range of practical skills, given them opportunities to develop self-discipline and shown them how to work independently, as part of a team or, indeed, to lead others.

“Now we are adding to that list of attributes by offering our Cadets the chance to earn independently recognised qualifications which will be of real value to them as they enter college or university or step into the world of work.

“Achieving BTEC standard in Public Services is no mean feat, particularly when the work is juggled with school, family and social commitments, but our Cadets have welcomed the challenge and have worked hard to achieve this valuable award.

“It seems to me that they have achieved the right balance, enjoying the fun and sociability which are at the very heart of Cadet membership while ensuring Daniel, Alan and Stephen for the effort and enthusiasm which I know lie behind earning BTEC in Public Services.

“I also pay tribute to the contribution made by the team of Adult Instructors who work tirelessly to ensure the success of this – and every other - element of Cadet life and of the many families and schools who support Cadet membership. That is team work at its best and these high achieving young people are the result.”