Flight Sergeant Oliver Kutny, 59 (Huddersfield) Squadron, has triumphed over an outstanding field of finalists to win the prestigious 2026 Cadet Vocational College Westminster Award.
The Westminster Award is the most prestigious accolade presented by Cadet Vocational College, recognising young people who demonstrate exceptional character, leadership, resilience and a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Following a year-long competition featuring nominations, written submissions, a residential selection event in Somerset, leadership development activities and a finalist expedition, Oliver was announced as the overall winner at a prestigious ceremony held at the House of Lords on Thursday 10 September. The award was presented by Lord Lingfield, Chairman of Cadet Vocational College. The occasion brought together finalists, their families, nominating officers, supporters and guests to celebrate the remarkable achievements of this year’s cohort.
Michèle Parry, Vice Principal and Deputy Chief Executive, said “Oliver’s confidence has grown throughout the competition, and I think that this particular individual has learnt a lot about themselves, and will take forward this confidence to continue to do great things within the cadet forces and community”
Throughout the Westminster Award journey, Oliver impressed judges with his character, commitment and contribution to those around him. The judges praised Oliver for embodying the values at the heart of the Westminster Award and for consistently demonstrating the qualities that make a positive difference in both his organisation and wider community.
Lord Lingfield Medal winner announced
Alongside the Westminster Award, Cadet Vocational College was delighted to present the Lord Lingfield Medal to Oliver Freer of St John Ambulance, Greater Manchester.
The Lord Lingfield Medal recognises a finalist who has demonstrated exceptional character, integrity, maturity and commitment throughout the Westminster Award journey.
Michèle said “Oliver surprised themselves with what they achieved both in Somerset and the Lake District. They were insightful, thoughtful, kind throughout the competition. They take every available opportunity to give back by fundraising and getting involved in their community”
ILM Achievement Award winner
Cadet Vocational College was also pleased to recognise Elisa Gjoka City of London Northeast Sector ACF as the recipient of the ILM Achievement Award.
The award recognises the strongest submission for the ILM Level 3 Award in Leadership and Management, which finalists have the opportunity to achieve as part of the Westminster Award journey.
Michèle said “Elisa took every opportunity to improve themselves; they were open to learning about different management styles and excited to take these back to their cadet unit and try them out. This was an excellent piece of work: well thought out and insightful”.
The ILM qualification enables learners to develop and evidence leadership and management skills that support future education, employment and volunteering opportunities.
Celebrating outstanding young people
Every finalist who reached the House of Lords demonstrated the qualities that the Westminster Award seeks to recognise: leadership, resilience, selflessness, service and a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
From the initial nominations through to the final expedition, this year’s finalists embraced challenges, developed new skills, built lasting friendships and represented their organisations with distinction.
Cadet Vocational College would like to congratulate Oliver K, Oliver F, Elise and all of the 2026 Westminster Award finalists on their remarkable achievements.
Their dedication, passion and commitment continue to demonstrate the extraordinary contribution that young people make to their communities every day.
Watch the 2026 highlights video below.