Gifted commanders who assist the NCO Academy are to get their support officially acknowledged under a new scheme.
The Champions recognition pathway, as it is known, commends leaders who resolutely push the organisation’s work and ethos of lifelong learning.
Those taking part will find themselves responsible for promoting a raft of initiatives such as mentoring and other continuous professional development. And this will be rewarded with a unique ID in their email signature block, officially affiliating them to the Sandhurst-based outfit.
Crucially, it is hoped the endeavour – which is open to lance corporals through to warrant officers – will create a trusted pool of personnel with the experience to develop strong leadership skills across the army.
Academy Command Sergeant Major WO1 Matty Howarth (RE) reported that 180 champions are already on board and said the aim is to grow that number to 200 by the end of the year.
Each individual will hold one of five digital badges depending on their level of involvement – from the entry-level emerging category to tactical, operational and strategic status. The most senior assume the title of advocate.
Deeper involvement in the academy’s work, such as delivering Tea and Toast Talks and hosting conference sessions, will bring greater recognition, according to WO1 Howarth.
The senior leader hopes the scheme will develop the careers of the champions while opening up their collective experience to others.
He said: “The academy has come a long way since it was first formed some two years ago – but we are not yet a household name, so to speak.
“At the moment we only have a small team at the organisation – so our aim is to build up a network that will give us a presence right across the service.
“Our champions will be identifiable by the digital badges – the first two of the five are live at the moment and, with the others coming online soon, those involved in the scheme will be able to progress through the different levels.”
WO1 Howarth said the project had received backing from the top, with both the Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Lt Gen David Eastman, and new Army Sergeant Major WO1 John Miller briefed on the move.
WO1 Daz Abbott who has been overseeing its roll-out, said champions were already providing a useful ‘temperature check’ for the chain of command.
They had given their views on a commanding officers’ toolbox for dealing with inappropriate behaviour – created from the recent Op Teamwork events. And they would be ready to critically look at any other initiatives in future.
“This network will assist the academy and wider army while giving the individual champions the opportunity to develop themselves professionally,” he said.
“It is important as we continue to expand the academy and its role.”
Future perks for the champions could include an annual dinner night matched with an awards structure for the best of the best, WO1 Abbott added.
Those wanting to take part needed to complete paperwork at the academy’s Defence Connect page, outlining their current skills and experience. They should ideally make their involvement known to the chain of command too, he explained.
We asked academy champion LCpl Elliott Taylor (pictured below) why he wanted to get involved in the scheme.
Name: LCpl Elliott Taylor
Cap badge: AGC (SPS)
Age: 30
Enlisted: 2013 with 1st Battalion, Grenadier Guards before joining the Adjutant General’s Corps in 2021
Deployments: Include Cyprus, Falkland Islands, Kenya and Norway
How did you hear about this pathway?
Through the NCO Academy Defence Gateway channel.
Why did you get involved?
Because it’s a great step in the development of non-commissioned officers. In my view, the average educational and operating level of NCOs has increased dramatically during my career – this can be harnessed by the army for increased operational effectiveness.
Anything you’re hoping to achieve personally?
To expand my own leadership and organisational skills as well as helping to develop the next generation.
Will this be popular with colleagues?
Yes – the NCO Academy is in its initial stages, yet it’s already done a lot of work and delivered great results. As time goes on, more doors will be opened as we see the potential that NCOs can realise for themselves and the wider army.
