WHAT IS THE ARMY CADET FORCE?  

The type of training offered helps foster self - confidence, teamwork and leadership, all of which can be practically applied to every day life.

Today there are more than 45,000 cadets spread across the country. Of that 45,000 about 15,000 are females. As well as having 40,000 cadets there are also 10,000 adult instructors.

The ACF runs on a star awards system named "APC" Army Proficiency Certificate. When a new recruit joins the cadet force they will start with basic training. Having completed this the cadet will progress through the levels from one star through to master cadet, with the possibility of getting a BTEC and Duke of Edinburgh's Bronze, Silver and Gold Award.

As part of training, cadets will take part in many activities including Fieldcraft, Skill at Arms, Map and Compass, First Aid, Drill and Survival Skills.

Each Year the cadets have the opportunity to go to Summer camp, Easter Camp, Winter Camp and many weekends. Where they can take part in adventurous activities including rock climbing and canoeing plus many more.

KEY POINTS

The Army Cadet Force is dedicated to preparing tomorrow’s leaders. From basic survival skills to leadership training, the ACF is helping to provide Britain's youth with the skills and self-confidence to succeed at home and around the world. Below are some that are useful outside of the ACF. 

BTEC All Cadets aged 16 and over now have the opportunity to earn, at no cost, a BTEC First Diploma in Public Services – the equivalent of 4 GCSE’s at A-C level (4 Standard Grades at levels 1 - 3 in Scotland).

D of E Since 1956 the ACF has been the largest operator, helping thousands of cadets reach one of their greatest goals. It has become an increasingly important feature of their ACF.  The Award has something extra to offer our members- cadets and young instructors- between the ages of 14 and 25, and this is best described as public recognition of their skills and talents.

FIRST AID Cadets train in First Aid at all levels. A vital military skill, but one which cadets can and do use in real life situations. For the past three years ACF cadets have been included in the 7 of 8 young people presented with prestigious Young First Aider of the Year awards. Other cadets have been awarded Meritorious First Aid Certificates and even the Life Saving Medal of the Order of St Johne .

SPORTS Army Cadets play many Sports, including Six-a Side Football, Seven-a-Side Rugby, Athletics ,Cross Country, Swimming, Hockey and Tug of War, to name a few. If you're good enough, you can compete in local and national championships, and, for Swimming, at Inter-Services level.

QUALIFICATIONS The ACF gives you lots of things. Experience. Excitement. Adventure. New skills. Self-confidence. Life-changing opportunities. But what indisputable proof can you put on your CV? Well if you want recognition for your achievements, prizes, certificates and awards, you can compete for: