Three cadets from 359 (Bexleyheath) Squadron, Air Training Corps, have completed a gruelling leadership course at Royal Air Force Cranwell, Lincolnshire.

Their commanding officer, an instructor on the Air Cadet Leadership Course which takes place throughout July each year, says that "The ACLC remains one of the most prestigious and challenging courses available to cadets with a high standard demanded of personal fitness, deportment and teamwork.

Several thousand cadets from across the country compete to be selected for a place, with only 66 available on each course. Leadership, mental dexterity and physical endurance are rigorously tested and there is no badge for attendance; only those who meet the grade make it to graduation, therefore even to complete ACLC is a huge achievement. To have three Bexleyheath cadets graduate with Merit is a tremendous feat which has given our squadron a renewed sense pride and drive to excel.

This is a fine example of just how much the Air Cadets can offer young people, starting from just 12 years old our cadets develop a portfolio of skills and qualifications which distinguish them on paper as well as developing confidence and character. In this instance, at the age of 17, the completion of this course qualifies these cadets to apply for membership with the Institute of Leadership and Management with a level 2 certificate and the opportunity to develop this further.

In addition to GCSE and A level results, these cadets will have a CV adorned with a first aid qualification, a level 3 BTEC in Aviation Studies, membership of the ILM and a Duke of Edinburgh's Award, currently silver and working towards gold.

They will enter the adult world with a rounded character having already refined leadership, teamwork and communication skills for several years, teaching and developing younger cadets. They have each represented Bexleyheath, Kent and London and South East in a range of sporting activities and other competitions, taking every opportunity the Air Training Corps has to offer.

It is my privilege to command young people of this calibre and I have every confidence that they will continue to excel throughout life in whatever career they pursue."

More information about the Air Cadets can be found online at www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets.

Photo taken by Cdt Cpl R Conner. Left to Right Cdt Sgt J Adams, Cdt FS C Flynn, Cdt Sgt A Gibson-Stark, Plt Off A B Kincaid BSc MInstILM RAFVR(T)

Based on information supplied by Andrew Kincaid.