Suffolk Army Cadets
Be more adventurous!
About Suffolk Army Cadets
Suffolk ACF offers challenging military, adventurous and community activities to young people aged 12 to 18. We aim to inspire young people to achieve success in life by fostering confidence, self-reliance, initiative, loyalty, and a sense of service to other people. With detachments across Suffolk, cadets experience training such as fieldcraft exercises, skill at arms, adventure training and more – all while having fun and making lifelong friends. Our passionate team of adult volunteers and professional support staff, help guide and inspire cadets while gaining their own skills and qualifications. Whether you’re a young person looking for challenge and growth or an adult wanting to give back, there’s a place for you in the Suffolk ACF!
Our Stats
500+
Cadets
120+
Adult Volunteers
23
Detachments
Find your nearest detachment
Key Information
Suffolk ACF is divided into 3 Companies.
A Company – Consists of 8 Detachments, around West Suffolk, ranging from Stowmarket to Haverhill.
B Company – Consists of 7 detachments, around East Suffolk, ranging from Leiston to Lowestoft.
C Company – Consists on 8 detachments, around the centre of the county including Ipswich.
Col Cathy Bradshaw
Commandant
Col Bradshaw initially joined Suffolk ACF in 1995 and has held the post of Commandant since June 2024.
Lt Col Mark Galley
Deputy Commandant
Lt Col Galley joined Suffolk ACF in 1985 as a cadet and has held the post of Deputy Commandant since May 2023.
WO1 (RSM) Simon Utting
RSM
WO1 (RSM) Utting joined Suffolk ACF in 2009 from Norfolk ACF and has held the post of RSM since January 2025.
To join Suffolk ACF as a cadet or an adult volunteer, simply click the Join Now button and complete the online form.
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Success Stories
Cadet Corporal Moir The ACF has allowed me to come out of my shell and develop my confidence through activities I haven't experienced anywhere else. I’ll hopefully get the chance to go Adventure Training, I'd never get that opportunity if it weren't for the cadets.
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Success Stories
Cadet Heath The best thing about cadets isn't just the mix of activities we do, shooting and fieldcraft are my favourites, it's the new friends I've made. It's taught me that girls are better than boys in certain areas which has helped break down that stigma.
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Success Stories
2Lt Garwood Being a CFAV can certainly present its own challenges, however the rewards I experience through seeing cadets develop as well as the opportunity to gain qualifications by simply doing activities that I enjoy isn't too bad either!
Latest News & Media Updates
Get all the latest news from detachments across the UK, including inspiring stories, amazing expeditions, and upcoming events.
B Company Cadets Complete Second Training Weekend of the Year
7 May 2026
A Fond Farewell to Suffolk's Lord Lieutenant
28 April 2026
Suffolk cadets enjoy the challenge of adventure training in South Wales
27 April 2026
Contact Information
Suffolk ACFArmy Reserve Centre
Yarmouth Road
Ipswich
Suffolk
IP1 4BH
AO1 07909 715680 Monday to Thursday 0800-1630 Friday 0800-1600
AO2 07917 493223 Monday to Thursday 1000-1500
- Email us: ea-suf-info@rfca.org.uk
Join the Army Cadets today!
Ready to Be More? Whether you’re 12–18 and eager for adventure, or an adult ready to inspire others, there’s a place for you to grow and lead.
