Corby and Kettering students accepted onto prestigious Master Cadets course

Two students at schools in Corby and Kettering have been accepted onto a prestigious course run by the Army Cadet Force.

Josh Haigh and Paul Ile from the Brooke Weston Trust Combined Cadet Force have gained a place on the Master Cadet course, which is accepting CCF cadets for the first time ever with only 12 from across the country accepted.

Both Josh, from Corby Business Academy, and Paul from Kettering Science Academy, had an online interview before their places were confirmed.

Josh, who is in Year 12, said: "This is my fourth year in the cadet force and I have developed lots of skills including teamwork, communication and leadership, as well as military skills including navigation and fieldcraft. CCF has been a massive confidence boost to me personally.

"A military career is definitely something I am considering. Cadets has opened my eyes to wider careers and helped me realise my potential. I’d like to do a degree in medicine and go on to be an Army doctor.

"I am really proud to have got onto the Master Cadet course. If people are thinking of joining the cadets I would tell them to go for it, the amount that I have learned about myself and others has been amazing. It is an amazing opportunity to get out of the classroom and gain practical skills. I have been really supported all the way through CCF."

Simon Underwood, Corby Business Academy’s principal, said: "We are all hugely proud of Josh and what he has achieved with the CCF. To be accepted onto this course is a huge accolade and demonstrates his dedication and determination."

Paul, from Year 13, said: "CCF has allowed me to stand up in front of people and talk to them with confidence. It has also given me leadership skills. You also get the aspect of teamwork and getting along with people. Getting onto the Master Cadet course is a massive achievement and I am very proud."

Tony Segalini, principal at Kettering Science Academy said: "Paul is a fantastic role model to our students and shows just what can be achieved with hard work, commitment and an ambition to aim high. Everyone at the Academy sends him huge congratulations on this achievement."

WO1 Nigel Barrett from the Trust Combined Cadet Force said: "This is a huge opportunity for Josh and Paul. They are fine examples of senior cadets and their skills, leadership and confidence have all developed massively during their time in the Combined Cadet Force. They are a credit to themselves, their schools and to the contingent as a whole."