FIVE Cadets from Devon have been learning how to become leaders of the future at a week-long Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) course run by education charity CVQO.

These were Jake Gallagher of 2469 (Exeter St Thomas) Sqn ATC, Daniel Bagnall of 299 Exmouth Sqn ATC, James Pidwell of Teigh Valley Unit SCC, Hannah Stubbs of Devon ACF and Andrew Dial of 200 (Torquay) Sqn ATC.

During the course, hosted by training specialists Outposts, the cadets completed a series of command tasks, including trebuchet construction, canyon crossing and raft building, in addition to classroom-based theory sessions, to achieve the ILM Level 3 in Leadership.

Andrew Dial said: "I chose to come on this course because it will look good on my CV and aid me to lead cadets when I return to my squadron. I feel that it has taught me a lot about different leadership models and how to motivate teams."

Jake Gallagher said: "This has been one of the best courses I have ever been on. As a cadet, you tend to go on camps where you meet different people and experience working in groups, but I'm hoping to pursue a career in the RAF and this qualification will really help my application.

The ILM Level 3 in Leadership and Management is an important part of the development of young learners, as they move into further education or employment. It brings out key skills in leadership, management and teamwork.

It is particularly suited to practising team leaders seeking to move up to the next level of management, and managers who need to lead people though, for example, organisational change, budget cuts or other pressures.