Halkirk cadets return to training

November 24, 2020
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More Army cadets from Caithness have returned to training following eight months of COVID-19 restrictions.

Following in the footsteps of 1st Battalion the Highlanders’ detachments in Thurso and Castletown, Halkirk Detachment returned to face-to-face training two weeks ago. The aim of the first night was to highlight the achievements of the cadets over lockdown.

Since the end of March, Army cadets up and down the country have moved their training online to ensure cadets were not falling behind in their progression. Trying to help improve people’s mental health by staying connected during lockdown has also been a priority. Throughout lockdown, the cadets of the Caithness Company Detachment have been engaging with the Battalion’s Online Programme, from weekly training lessons to online competitions and challenges. The cadets were welcomed back to their detachment where they – keeping to social distancing guidelines – spent the night celebrating their achievements in lockdown.

At the end of the evening one presentation was made, to Cadet Lauren Young (14) who was promoted to Cadet Lance Corporal.

Cadet Young (right) receiving her promotion from Detachment Commander Captain Stephen Mezals (left).

The Army cadets are allowed to return to face-to-face training in Scotland as it falls under the youth sector and is classified as a designated essential service that engages young people within their communities and also acknowledges the wider networks of peers, community and culture, as well as supporting the young person to realise their potential and to address life’s challenges critically and creatively.