Welcome to the Cambridgeshire Army Cadet Force (ACF) website. Whether you are visiting for the first time, or revisiting, we aim to give you an insight into life in the ACF in general and the Cambridgeshire ACF in particular. We hope you enjoy your visit and that it will lead you to telling others about us   -  or even joining us yourself !

The Army Cadet Force is one of the UK's oldest, largest and most successful youth organisations. Consisting of some 44,000 cadets based at over 1,700 local detachments and units across the country, the ACF helps young people between the ages of 12 (and in year 8 upwards at school) and 18, to develop personally and physically by providing a range of exciting and stimulating opportunities, challenges and activities.

Click here to find out what we do, and here  to find out about our training activities.

Central to the ACF are its 8,000 adult instructors  -  committed volunteers 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, attaining a BTec Diploma, or simply looking after themselves at Annual Camp.

The MOST IMPORTANT people in the ACF are the Cadets themselves. Spare time can be put to good use by taking part in the challenging, progressive, adventurous and "fun" activities which are available to all members of the Army Cadet Force.

The ACF is open to males and females, and is sponsored by the Ministry of Defence, although it does NOT form part of the Armed Services, and members are free to leave at any time. Members are required to wear issued uniform when on official duties. Cambridgeshire ACF have a strength of 600 Cadets and 100 Officers & Adult Instructors.

Providing you are medically fit and can pass the necessary criminal records and security checks you are eligible to be considered for a post in the Army Cadet Force. After an initial interview you will undertake a period of six evening training sessions (one per week) followed by one weekend, all held at the Cadet Training Centre, Waterbeach.

This basic training will prepare you for a week long course run by a Regular Army Cadet Training Team. Successful completion will lead to your appointment as a Sergeant Instructor.  However this appointment is not a military one - the rank applies ONLY to Army Cadet Force activities, and whilst not specifically subject to military law, you are expected to conduct yourself with honesty, integrity and discipline at all times.

Once appointed as a Sergeant Instructor you will be required to attend a Detachment in your area which will parade once a week. In addition there will be many opportunities to take part in weekend training camps and exercises throughout the year, and the two week annual camp usually during August  -  in short, the more you can give,the more satisfaction and experience you will get from your ACF service. Up to 28 days pay and allowances are payable each year for those able to give that commitment.

Within your  first 2 years of service you are required to attend the Cadet Training Centre, Frimley Park, Surrey, for a week long Basic Instructors Cadre (course). Those successful on the course can then be considered for further promotion as vacancies arise, subject to continued satisfactory service.

Those who possess additional qualities and abilities may apply at an early stage for consideration to become a commissioned  officer. You would be required to undergo officer selection procedures in which you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your leadership and management potential. There is also a commission board interview. If successful you would receive a Territorial Army 'Type B' Commission, becoming  an Officer in  Her Majesty's Land Forces serving ONLY with the Army Cadet Force. As an officer you WILL be subject to Queens Regulations and Military Law, requiring higher standards of personal behaviour and integrity both on and off duty.

Want to Know more ?........Ring 01223 862949 or  visit your local Detachment and speak to the adult staff......to find them click here Locations