Cadet Kieran Alderton, aged 18, has recently completed his BTEC First Diploma in Public Services, achieving a Distinction grade. Kieran has been a member of 2 Highlanders ACF for over four years, and will soon be studying chemistry at Edinburgh University. Following his degree, he hopes to go on to a career as a helicopter pilot in the Army Air Corps.

Kieran says, “The Army Cadet Force has transformed me from a shy individual into a more confident team worker and studying for the BTEC First Diploma with CVQO played a major part in this.”

Nine CVQO Duke of Westminster Award finalists set off on Friday for Johannesburg from Terminal One Heathrow Airport at the start of their three week South African expedition. It was the ultimate prize for the lucky nine, after they participated in a series of challenging selection processes. 350 nominations were made late last year, with all nominees enrolled on a qualification with CVQO.

Bob Hordle (HR Director CVQO), an Officer and a Gentleman through and through sadly passed away on Sunday after losing his fight with bowel cancer. Bob will not only leave a huge hole in the CVQO family but also within the cadet forces at large. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bob’s wife, children and family. We will remember him.

Eighteen year old Chantel Birtwistle of Our Lady’s RC School, Royton won “Best Student” (Level 3 Public Services) prize at an award evening held at Rochdale’s Norton Grange Hotel on Wednesday (14th July).