What we do

 
The ACF is a Voluntary Youth Organisation. It is sponsored by the Ministry of Defence and provides progressive and challenging military, adventurous and community activities for young people between the ages of 12 - 18. The ACF is huge, with more than 44,000 members spread across 1700 units and each with a around 25 cadets.

Its aim is to inspire young people to achieve success in life, to push themselves to the limit. The type of training offered helps foster self confidence, teamwork and leadership, all of which can be practically applied to everyday life.

The cadets parade two nights a week, and will find that they have the opportunity to spend at least one weekend approximately evety two months at a training camp. All equipment and clothing is provided free of charge on a temporary loan - the only item of kit we ask you to provide is a pair of boots and a sleeping bag.

When a new recruit joins the cadets they will start initially with basic training. Having completed this the cadet will then progress through the training levels from one star to Master Cadet, ultimately leading to a BTEC award. As part of their training, cadets will take part in many activities including Shooting, Fieldcraft, Skill at Arms, Map and Compass, First Aid, Drill and Survival Skills. Cadets also have the opportunity to train and compete in many sporting activities such as football, rugby, swimming, and orienteering to mention a few.

Then there is adventure training which offers an exciting opportunity for cadets to put into practice some of the skills they have developed whilst training at their local detachments. Mountain walking, Canoeing, Rock Climbing/Abseiling are amongst a number of adventurous training activities undertaken by cadets.

Each year the cadets have the opportunity to spend a week at summer camp where they can again take part in the adventurous activities mentioned above and many more sporting activities.

Cadets can also take part in expeditions that can count towards their Duke of Edinburgh's Award, and also have the opportunity to travel and take part in adventure training overseas.

The ACF aims to inspire young people to achieve success in their life with a spirit of service to the Queen, their Country and their local community, and to develop in them the qualities of a good citizen - whilst having loads of FUN. Can you really afford to miss out on all these opportunities and training that we can offer to you ?