Beyond the uniform: Cadets share their experiences with HUC leaders

Two high-achieving young people from the Royal Air Force Air Cadets shared their experiences with HUC’s senior leadership team, demonstrating how the cadet movement develops confidence, resilience and valuable life skills.

Cadet Warrant Officer Oliver Wright, 17, and Civilian Instructor Evelyn Walker, 20, pictured left, joined HUC leaders for a special presentation marking National Cadets Week.

Both have been nominated as the best cadets in South and East Midlands Wing, which has more than 2,000 cadets, for two consecutive years, progressing to regional selection.

They have also addressed more than 250 senior business leaders and military officers at an Armed Forces Covenant engagement event.

The HUC session was organised by colleague Jade Waring, a Squadron Leader and Sector Commander with the RAF Air Cadets, who has volunteered for approximately 20 years.

Evelyn who recently transitioned from cadet to adult volunteer, previously held the highest cadet rank and was selected as a Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet.

Now studying product design, she challenged the assumption that joining the cadets necessarily means pursuing a military career.

“I personally don’t want to go into the forces,” she explained, emphasising how the organisation helps young people develop the determination to pursue their individual ambitions.

Their presentation highlighted how cadets can assume genuine leadership responsibilities from as young as 14, learning to manage and support others.

Opportunities range from first aid and leadership qualifications to cyber training, flying scholarships and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The presentation also illustrated how cadet membership can encourage young people to discover new interests and abilities, including through sport and outdoor activities.

Oliver, who holds the highest rank available to cadets and volunteers with 644 Volunteer Gliding Squadron, emphasised the considerable commitment made by adult volunteers and encouraged employers to consider how flexibility could help them balance their responsibilities.

The discussion also explored how cadet organisations support young people with additional needs.

Evelyn described efforts to adapt activities and make opportunities accessible, while Jade shared examples of volunteers going beyond their usual responsibilities to help young people participate.

HUC’s Head of People, Carmelle Hartgrove, praised the presenters.

“They were both such impressive young people, confident, thoughtful and incredibly articulate,” she said, particularly commending their practical approach to inclusion.

HUC’s Chief Finance and Corporate Services Officer, Moony Nijjar, highlighted the importance of character, resilience and perseverance, particularly in healthcare, where trust and responsibility are fundamental.

The event reflected HUC’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and recognition of the contribution cadets and adult volunteers make to their communities.

It also highlighted opportunities for employers to build stronger connections with cadet organisations and recognise the skills their members bring to the workplace.

As Evelyn explained, the cadet experience isn’t simply about preparing for military service — it’s about helping young people pursue whatever future they choose.

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Beyond the uniform: Cadets share their experiences with HUC leaders

Two high-achieving young people from the Royal Air Force Air Cadets shared their experiences with HUC’s senior leadership team, demonstrating how the cadet movement develops confidence, resilience and valuable life skills.

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