Bid to demystify role of Lt-Governor’s cadets

The open evening was attended by more than 25 representatives from groups such as the Youth Commission, Autism Guernsey and Scouts.

Also in attendance was the current cohort of cadets and Tracey Driscoll, a cadet from the first ever cohort of 1988-89.

It was the first time Government House had run this event.

Aide-de-camp to the Lt-Governor, Major Marco Ciotti, said the aim was to demystify any misconceptions about the initiative.

‘We wanted everyone to get a better understanding of the scheme and to raise awareness of its accessibility,’ he said.

‘It used to be just open to uniformed organisations so we explained how it is available to all young people who meet the age requirements.’

The evening started with a speech from Major Ciotti who gave the audience a history of the scheme and its evolution in recent times.

He went on to discuss how to nominate a young islander, what a good nomination looks like, and the roles the cadets play within Government House.

‘A good nomination doesn’t just say this candidate is exceptional, it also explains why and gives a flavour of their character,’ Major Ciotti told the gathering.

This was followed by a question and answer with the current cadets.

‘There was a great atmosphere and the cadets were chatting along with everyone,’ said Major Ciotti.

The scheme was introduced locally in 1988 by then Lt-Governor Sir Alexander Boswell, who based it on the UK model which has been in operation since the 1960s.

That saw members of uniformed youth organisations support the Sovereign’s representatives across the 99 UK lieutenancies.

Guernsey cadets partake in events such as presentations of awards at Government House, the King’s Birthday Reception and the Liberation Day Parade.

They also help the Lt-Governor better understand the Bailiwick’s young population, voicing their opinion on the future of our islands.

Potential cadets for this year must be aged 15-18 at the beginning of September.

The deadline for nominations is Friday 2 June, with up to five people being chosen through the recommendation, application and interview process.

Nomination forms are available by emailing info@youthcommission.gg.