Students at The Earls High School have been diving into new experiences thanks to an exciting short course run by the Halesowen Detachment, Hereford & Worcester Army Cadet Force (ACF). The initiative, designed to connect young people with the ACF, has given students a hands-on introduction to the diverse activities available through the Cadets, helping them develop valuable skills and confidence.
Over several weeks, students took part in a wide range of engaging sessions. They learned life-saving first aid techniques, including CPR and how to use an Automated External Defibrillator, tackled creative problem-solving in STEM by designing innovative inventions, and explored key fieldcraft skills such as camouflage and concealment. The group also had their first introduction to Army drill and turnout, giving them a taste of the discipline and teamwork that Cadets experience.
The programme has been met with enthusiasm, with many students eager to continue their journey by joining the Army Cadets. Assistant Headteacher Miss Seleshe praised the success of the initiative, saying:
“The collaboration between The Earls High School and the Halesowen Army Cadet Force has enabled the development of an exciting opportunity for students to explore the content of a new extra-curricular venture. It has been great to work with a local organisation to help offer students a wider breadth of experiences outside of the classroom. The enthusiasm from the students has been evident, and they have really enjoyed the variety of content that the taster sessions have offered.”
Halesowen Detachment Commander SSI Jacobs also highlighted the importance of making the Cadet Forces more accessible to young people, adding:
“We are very happy with how the programme has turned out. It can sometimes be intimidating starting a new club for the first time, so our aim with these sessions was to introduce the students to what the ACF has to offer in a familiar environment and get to know us before committing.”
The Army Cadets, open to young people aged 12-18, offers a wide range of opportunities, including adventurous training, music lessons, band activities, and advanced fieldcraft skills. Through this partnership, the Halesowen Detachment has not only provided students with valuable new experiences but also strengthened its connection with the local community.
With the taster sessions now complete, the ACF has since welcomed many new Cadets eager to build on what they’ve learned and take on new challenges. For more information on how to get involved, visit www.armycadets.com.
Find out more about the Cadets.
Published 05/02/2025
