Longbenton Air Cadet George Binfield, 17, currently in Year 12, is up for the role after a tough selection process as part of the CVQO Duke of Westminster Awards. The Award is designed to find and recognise the best of the BTEC cadets across the UK.
It’s not just about being a great cadet – CVQO is looking for young people who go beyond the cadet experience, who become valuable members of their communities and who show a willingness to selflessly help others.
The initial 250 nominations from all of the Cadet Forces across the UK were whittled down to 27 regional finalists after completing a reflective journal explaining how being a cadet has impacted upon their life. The top 27 then competed in a challenging four-day selection event in the Quantock Hills, Somerset, which tested their communication, teamwork and leadership skills through a variety of demanding physical and mental tasks. From that event, just 10 were selected for a three-week educational expedition in South Africa.
“I had an amazing time in Somerset,” said George. “I met some great people and made some good friends from across the country. I’m looking to read a Maths degree at either Oxford or Cambridge University after I complete by A Levels and it was a good experience to meet and work with people who are already there,” said the Longbenton Community College student.
“The whole experience was amongst the best of my life so far and I’m thrilled to have got the opportunity and have gained an ILM Level 3 in Leadership from it too” added George.
Sadly, it wasn’t a case of George of the jungle as George narrowly missed out on a top 10 spot. However, as a remaining finalist and with our help, he can become a Regional Ambassador!
Officer Commanding, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson, explains, “We are all disappointed that George has narrowly missed out a top 10 placing but equally proud he made it to the finals and can become an ambassador.
“He has an outgoing and generous personality with an excellent sense of humour. He is such a positive role model to other young people; displaying true leadership qualities in coming thus far and his ambition has only been fuelled along with his desire to learn.”
George’s podcast is at https://youtu.be/YJgW8Wd6bOk
Longbenton Squadron is currently open to new members in Year 8 or above. Please visit www.2344.org.uk for further information.
