Learning trust launches Army Cadet Force during Armed Forces Week

Summit Learning Trust has officially launched their Army Cadet Force (ACF) during the Armed Forces Week.

To mark the occasion, the trust welcomed the Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Sir John Crabtree CVO OBE, to a special event.

Welcomed to Ninestiles, an Academy – one of Summit’s eight schools – by CEO Vince Green, Sir John proceeded through a Guard of Honour provided by the Summit Detachment Unit with Lieutenant Colonel Peter Bull 8 Rifles.

The Lieutenant Colonel was accompanied by other Forces representatives including: Andrew Trelawny (INF HQ-LIGHT-RIFLES-RegSecMid); and Major R Walker cadet executive officer, Warwickshire and West Midlands (SS) ACF.

The Cadets were led in parade by Delroy Tucker, Commandant of Warwickshire and West Midlands (South Sector) Army Cadet Force and Summit’s Contingent Commander, Lt Wendy Barker.

The Trust, which is already a Silver ranked signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant (and in the process of applying for Gold status), opened its Army Cadet detachment earlier in the year.

Part of the Warwickshire and West Midland (South Sector) Army Cadet Force, the detachment is cap badged as a Rifles unit and draws cadets from across the Summit Learning Trust secondary schools.  

The ACF is an educational partnership between schools and the Ministry of Defence that aims to inspire young people between 12 and 18 years old to challenge their limits, grow their abilities and go further in life.

It aims to teach the ideals and activities of the Forces, developing students’ personal responsibility, leadership and self-discipline through challenging and educational activities.

Vince Green, CEO of Summit Learning Trust said: “It was an honour to welcome Sir John Crabtree CVO OBE Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands and distinguished officers from the Armed Forces today to mark what is an important milestone for our Trust.

“The Army Cadet Force has been shown to have an enormous impact on the lives of young people who join, building their confidence and self-esteem, and teaching them critical life skills they can rely on now and in the future.

“I am delighted we can offer learners right across our Summit schools this opportunity and I know those who are involved will remember today for many years to come.

“On behalf of all our cadets, and everyone at Summit Learning Trust, I would like to express my gratitude for Sir John Crabtree CVO OBE Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Lieutenant Colonel Bull and all his colleagues for their part in making this event so special.”

Sir John Crabtree CVO OBE, Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, said: “I am a great admirer of the work of the Army Cadet Force and therefore was delighted to join the Summit Detachment at the start of their exciting journey.

“Through opportunities like this, young people can be supported to develop their skills and also come to appreciate the important sacrifices members of the Armed Forces make on our behalf each day. I wish the Summit cadets every success in this new venture.”