Daria at The King’s School Canterbury has picked up an astonishing range of vocational qualifications to prepare herself for future life.

Nationally recognised qualifications in first aid, cyber security, leadership and management are amongst those earned through her membership of the school’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF).

CSM Daria, who is studying A Levels at King’s, has earned a total of 24 UCAS points through qualifications offered by the Army Cadets.

The qualifications have seen her tested in a range of settings, from tracing security breaches in a cyber lab to responding to a simulated road-traffic accident.

Amongst the demanding qualifications she has completed are the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 3 Award, the First Aid at Work qualification, and the CyberFirst Advanced Course in cyber security.

These intensive courses place her in an excellent position for her future academic and professional ambitions, particularly as she prepares to study Computer Science at university.

All the qualifications have demanded significant independent learning, self-discipline and initiative: qualities that universities and graduate employers value highly in young people.

CSM Daria undertook each course while balancing academic work with her CCF responsibilities as a senior NCO in the Contingent.

Reflecting on her experience, Daria said: “The variety of cadet courses has been incredible: everything from leadership to cyber security. Each one has pushed me in a different way, and I can already see how the skills I’ve gained will benefit my future studies and career. The CCF gives you opportunities you simply wouldn’t get anywhere else.”

Major Alistair Goddard, CCF Contingent Commander, praised her determination: “Daria embodies the very best of what the Army Cadets aims to develop: initiative, confidence and the drive to succeed. She has taken a proactive approach to her learning, embracing every opportunity available to her. These qualifications will serve her exceptionally well as she moves forward towards university and beyond.”