A group of air cadets have gained 10 GCSE's whilst helping their community.
Thirty two members of 346(Tynemouth) Squadron have passed the BTEC award in aviation studies, public services or music services. In some cases, each cadet has gained the equivalent of 10 GCSE passes. Some of the cadets had their certificates presented to them by Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant N Sherlock OBE Esq at a special ceremony recently.
Corporal Dominic Jones from Tynemouth was especially pleased. "I give up my free time to attend cadets and I have a really great time doing the different activities that we get involved in. It's even better when these can be recognised with a qualification." Dominic hopes to join the RAF as a pilot, he told us why these extra qualifications are so useful, "The BTEC award in aviation studies is particularly helpful to me as it covers a lot if the things that I'd study as part of my pilot training."
The commanding officer of Tynemouth squadron, flight lieutenant Will Close-Ash was delighted for the cadets. "It is very important that we equip our young people with skills and qualifications that will allow them to succeed in today's competitive business place."
Will, who is a teacher in a school in Northumberland, told us, "These BTEC awards recognise the skills that our young people have developed over two years that they have been with us. With time such a precious commodity for young people, it's important that they can gain qualifications with us as well as at school".
If you'd like the opportunity to gain additional qualifications while enjoying yourself, then visit Tynemouth Squadron on any Tuesday or Friday evening from 7:00pm to 9:30pm. Visit the squadron website www.346sqn.co.uk
Photo: Cpl Dominic Jones receives his BTEC award from the Lord Lieutenant.