Army Cadet Force - About

Who we are

Overview

THE ARMY CADET FORCE (ACF) is one of the UK’s oldest, largest and most successful youth organisations. Consisting of more than 47,000 cadets in around 1,700 local detachments across the country, the ACF helps young people between the ages of 12 and 18 develop both personally and physically by providing a range of opportunities, challenges and activities.

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What we do

We develop young people physically and mentally, improving self-confidence, teamwork, friendship and leadership. We welcome cadets of all abilities and backgrounds that are able to access the majority of our activities. We also aim to develop a sense of community in our cadets.
We provide a wide diversity of fun, exciting and adventurous opportunities.
We are a gateway to recognised vocational qualifications from the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme to BTEC First Diplomas which can help in working and school life.

ACF Adventurous Training

What you can do

Explore our structure and goals

Central to the ACF are its 8,500 adult volunteers - enthusiastic and committed people who inspire youngsters to achieve their goals, whether it's learning how to canoe, reaching the next level of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, or learning how to look after themselves at annual camp.
You can help - we need the continuing support of the ACF in the local community.
Adult volunteers come in all shapes and sizes, from all walks of life and have all sorts of skills and experience. Whatever your day job, whether as a manager or a mother, a former soldier or a factory supervisor, an engineer or an English teacher, it's likely you will have something valuable to contribute. We couldn't deliver such an exciting array of opportunities without a wide variety of individuals to help us.
We provide a structured approach to developing young people, working closely with the Local Education Authority, police and other youth initiatives.