On Wednesday, 30 October, Cadet Direct was proud to witness one of our own team members achieve a prestigious professional milestone. Our colleague Daniel attended his graduation ceremony at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst after completing a level 5 City and Guilds Professional Recognition Award in Leadership and Management. Here, we share more about Daniel’s impressive journey, the course’s structure, and the memorable graduation day.

Pursuing Leadership Excellence: Daniel’s Journey to Level 5 Certification

Daniel has dedicated the past year to advancing his professional qualifications with the Cadet Vocational College. As an Army Cadet Force instructor with Sussex ACF, he identified the Level 5 City and Guilds Professional Recognition Award in Leadership and Management as the next step in his progression, having already completed previous certification levels. In September last year, he committed to the challenge and approached Cadet Direct’s directors, Dave and James, for support. Recognising his potential and the benefits to the company, they agreed to help fund the course, championing Daniel’s professional development.

About the Level 5 Professional Recognition Award in Leadership and Management

This level 5 award, provided through the Cadet Vocational College, is recognised by employers, colleges, and universities across the UK. It offers Cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers a highly valued qualification that builds both professional and practical leadership skills. The course is assessed through a reflective portfolio, where participants document real-life experiences, provide work evidence, and include witness statements to meet the high standards set by the program.

Building a Comprehensive Portfolio of Skills and Achievements

To complete his portfolio, Daniel highlighted achievements from his five years with Cadet Direct. His projects included leading initiatives to improve customer communication, enhance internal systems, and streamline operations. This work has contributed to quicker order fulfilment for our customers and demonstrates Daniel’s dedication to efficiency and service excellence. Additionally, he drew from his extensive experience as an Army Cadet Force instructor, where he has managed two detachments and held a significant role at his county headquarters.

Graduation Day at Sandhurst: A Moment of Honour and Celebration

Accompanied by his family, including his wife, mother, and mother-in-law, Daniel arrived at Sandhurst’s historic Indian Army Memorial Hall. The day began with an opportunity for guests to explore the grounds and take photographs on the iconic steps of the Old College. Graduates from across the country – and even one from the Hong Kong Air Cadets – joined to celebrate their achievements together.

When all were assembled, the ceremony moved to the Royal Memorial Chapel, where graduates and guests were welcomed. In his opening remarks, The Right Honourable Lord Lingfield, Chairman of the Cadet Vocational College Board of Trustees, praised the graduates’ commitment. Principal and Chief Executive Guy Horridge continued with an address, commending the hard work of those who balance their qualifications with other professional and volunteer responsibilities.

The Ceremony and Recognition

One of the ceremony's highlights was the address from the 2024 Westminster Award winner, Harry Rilett-Malborn. Speaking from the cadet perspective, he acknowledged the profound impact of the graduates’ contributions, thanking them for their dedication. Finally, each graduate received their certificate from Lord Lingfield, recognising their academic and vocational accomplishments.

Celebrating the Achievement with Family and Friends

The event concluded with photos on the Memorial Chapel steps, followed by a drinks reception and a celebratory meal in Sandhurst’s dining hall. It was a fitting close to a day of achievement and inspiration, marking the end of a journey for Daniel and the start of new opportunities.

Daniel’s success is a testament to the value of continuous learning and dedication to personal and professional growth. At Cadet Direct, we are thrilled to support our team in achieving their goals and proud to celebrate this well-deserved achievement with him. Congratulations, Daniel!

Photos courtesy of Grace Baldock and Cadet Vocational College