Welsh leader sees new RN cadet unit in Cardiff

Wales’ First Minister saw the work of cadet forces when he dropped in on Cardiff’s Fitzalan High School.

Mark Drakeford AM was hosted by the Royal Navy Combined Cadet Force section as senior cadets and adult instructors helped to give him an insight into the work of the unit – and the Combined Cadet Force in general.

He watched cadets demonstrate their freshly-learned skills and got involved in practical activities before chatting with youngsters about what the cadet unit means to them.

"The First Minister was really pleased with us, we demonstrated some aspects of the unit and showed him the progress we are making. We all pulled together today and I’m really proud of all the cadets,” said 18-year-old Cadet Petty Officer Faris Malik, the senior cadet and also a Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet.

Seventeen-year-old Leading Cadet Minahil Khan added: “He really got to understand what we are doing and was impressed by the confidence and teamwork shown.

“It was good also to meet some of the regular Navy people who came along and ask them about their jobs and share experiences.”

The Royal Navy detachment at Fitzalan High was only established in April last year, the only one in Wales funded as part of the Cadet Expansion Programme with the goal of promoting military ethos in learning establishments.

The scheme sets out to instil core values in young people that will help them get the most out of their lives and contribute to their communities.
Students develop vital qualities such as self-discipline, integrity, loyalty and respect, strong leadership, teamwork and resilience – skills and character traits highly valued both in the classroom and the wider world.

“It was a great pleasure to visit Fitzalan High School and to see the involvement of so many students, from so many different backgrounds, all engaged in common tasks,” said Mr Drakeford.

“There can be no doubt that the experiences made available to these young people through their involvement in the scheme will live in their memories for years to come.”

It was a great pleasure to visit Fitzalan High School and to see the involvement of so many students, from so many different backgrounds, all engaged in common tasks. There can be no doubt that the experiences made available to these young people through their involvement in the scheme will live in their memories for years to come.