Cadet Forces

If your child is already talking about parade nights, greens or annual camp and you find yourself smiling and nodding while having no idea what they mean, you are not alone. To help you feel included, here is a guide to the key cadet terms and phrases you are most likely to hear as a parent of a new cadet.

Are you a RAF Air Cadet? Soon, you won’t just be learning how to navigate with a compass or polish your boots for parade, you could be learning how to fly drones and earn a real, recognised qualification while you’re at it.

The new school year has arrived and with it, a new wave of young people stepping into boots, berets and brilliant adventures with the cadets! Welcome to all the new cadets across the country.

In a move to strengthen the Armed Forces with society, the UK Government has announced plans to expand the Cadet Force by 30%. By 2030, the plan is to grow from 140,000 to 180,000 cadets, with an ambition to eventually reach a massive 250,000! So, what does that actually mean for you, your teenager, or your school? More opportunities, more...

Get ready for Armed Forces Day 2025 because this year, it’s all about showing up sharp, standing proud and celebrating cadets like never before. Taking place on Saturday 28th June, Armed Forces Day completes the Armed Forces Week (starting 23rd June) and it includes Reserves Day, which takes place on 25th June 2025. The Armed Forces Day is the UK’s...

Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), marks one of the most important moments in British Army history. On 8th May 1945, after six years of World War II, Germany surrendered. Across the UK, millions celebrated the end of the war in Europe with street parties, parades and gatherings. This day is still honoured and celebrated every year, and 2025 marks...

This April, Cadet Easter Camp will be running across the UK for Army Cadets and Combined Cadet Forces (CCF). These camps are an excellent opportunity to explore and learn new skills, including fieldcraft, navigation, first aid, team building and specific training drills. Speak to your detachment for more details about your camp focus. No matter the weather or activity, Cadet...

The Army Cadet Pocket Book is the ultimate guide for cadets who want to take their skills to the next level. Whether you're mastering camouflage, sharpening your shooting accuracy, or leading your squad on an epic expedition, this book is packed with everything you need to thrive in the Army Cadets. Joining the Army Cadets is way more than just...

Every March, the Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) invites individuals and groups across the UK to participate in The Great Tommy Sleep Out, a national award-winning fundraising challenge aimed at supporting veterans experiencing homelessness. Participants are encouraged to sleep outdoors for one or more nights, choosing their own locations and planning their events to raise funds. In 2024, this initiative...

Training is at the heart of every Army Cadet’s journey, and having the right resources can significantly enhance both learning and performance. The ACF Basic Training Posters, now available at Cadet Direct, offer essential guidance in key areas such as drill and turnout, communication systems, weapon handling, kit preparation, and cadet values. Designed to support cadet development at every level...