Officer Cadet Harrison Jefferies, a 23-year-old from Norwich, has joined the ranks of the British Army's next generation of leaders, after passing out in a prestigious graduation ceremony at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Passing out from Sandhurst marks the completion of 44 weeks of intensive military and academic training, combined with adventurous training and sporting challenges. As soon as Officer Cadets graduate, they enjoy leadership responsibilities and will have guaranteed career progression through the ranks.

They will be in charge of a platoon of 30 soldiers, managing their skills, workloads and welfare, and could deploy on peacekeeping missions or deliver humanitarian aid within months of graduating.

2Lt Jefferies, who will be joining the Coldstream Guards, said: 'Being part of an elite group of people that have graduated as British Army Officers from Sandhurst makes me extremely proud. It's one of the biggest challenges I have ever undertaken, but also one of the most rewarding. I cannot wait to be putting the leadership skills I've learned at Sandhurst to good use as part of my new Regiment.'

Major General Paul Nanson, Commandant Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, said: 'Being an Officer in the Army means supporting each of your soldiers and colleagues, sharing values and goals, and working together to achieve something that really matters. I look forward to seeing each of our new Officers realise their full potential as they embark on their careers with the Army.'

The parade ended in traditional fashion with the Academy Adjutant following the Officer Cadets up the steps and through the grand entrance, mounted on his horse.

After a formal lunch with friends, family and regimental officers, the day concluded in spectacular and celebratory style at the exclusive commissioning ball. There, at the stroke of midnight, the newly commissioned Second Lieutenants proudly displayed their rank insignia for the first time.

To join the Regular Army as an Officer, candidates must be 18–30 years of age, attained at least seven GCSEs (with a minimum grade C in English Language, Maths and either a science or a foreign language) and also have 180 UCAS Tariff points from a maximum of 3 A level subjects.