A 16 year-old Coleg Gwent student has been chosen for the prestigious position of Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet for her outstanding achievements in the Army Cadet Force (AFC).
A Level student Allana Reid has been chosen to assist the Lord Lieutenant of Gwent Simon Boyle on official engagements for a year. Lord-Lieutenants are the Queen’s representatives in every county of the UK.
Allana joined Gwent & Powys Army Cadet Force in 2007, starting in the Pen Y Rheol detachment before transferring to Blackwood. Her swift rise through the Cadet ranks, passing her Army Proficiency Certificates (APCs) to become a Cadet Sergeant, and optional leadership qualification Senior Cadet Instructor Cadre, have been exceptional achievements for her age.
Allana is preparing to meet HM The Queen at one of her first official engagements with the Lord-Lieutenant during April.
“I’m so honoured to be awarded the post, I didn’t even expect to be considered at my age,” said Senior Cadet Allana, 16, from Fleur de Lys. “I’m really looking forward to representing Gwent’s Cadets in my new role.”
She may be young, but Allana’s experiences have certainly been action-packed. An award for ‘best recruit’ and representing the AFC at the 2011 WWII remembrance parade in London also number among the talented teenager’s many impressive achievements.
Some of the varied skills Allana has mastered include skill-at-arms, expeditions, first aid and map & compass. Army Cadets also learn a wide range of skills in practical exercises such as Fieldcraft, consisting of navigation, team working, leadership and survival skills.
Allana’s positive attitude continues to drive her success: “It can be really tough”, she said, speaking about her experiences on a Fieldcraft expedition to the Brecon Beacons in 2011.
“Fieldcraft can leave you psychically drained, as you’re carrying such heavy kit, but it’s important to stay focused and positive, as this helps morale stay high among the team.”
Allana is no stranger to life in the military. Growing up on army bases in Cyprus, Scotland and Wales, and following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather – both in the forces – sparked her interest in the Army Cadet Force.
Since joining the Cadets, which she attends twice a week, Allana’s commitment to continuous learning and development both in the ACF and at College is inspirational. As well as studying her A Levels in English Literature, Law and Religious Studies at Coleg Gwent’s Crosskeys Campus, the youngster also aims to complete a BTEC qualification in Public Services with the ACF, and shares her teaching and leadership skills supervising and instructing new recruits.
“I try to learn as much as I can, which will hopefully stand me in good stead for the future,” she said.
“I’ve not decided on a career yet, but getting a good education is so important. At the moment I’m considering eventually going into nursing, but I’d also like to get a helicopter pilot’s licence too!”
Coleg Gwent Crosskeys Campus Director Jen Jenkins, said: “We were all delighted and proud to learn of Allana’s success, and wish her well for her year in the role of Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet.”
