Joining up as a Cadet
How old do I have to be?
Girls and boys wishing to join the Army Cadet Force must be 12 years of age and in Year 8 of their Secondary education prior to joining. Cadets can serve up to reaching 18 years & 9 months of age.
Do I have to join the Army after?
No! Some Cadets decide to pursue a career with the Armed Forces and the training they receive in the Army Cadet Force certainly gives them a head start, but you don't have to.
How much time does it take up??
That's entirely up to you. Detachments meet once or twice a week, there are activities organised on some weekends plus a two week Annual Camp. Most Cadets get hooked and turn up for everything but we know that this isn't always possible.
How much does it cost?
The Army Cadets is the best value Youth Organisation. The joining fee is £18.00, of that £10.00 is a deposit which is returned when you leave. Our training, sports and adventure is mostly supplied for free - thanks to our sponsorship by the Army and charitable donations. Cadets will be expected to contribute a little towards the cost of food on weekend training and annual camp but overall it is still the cheapest way of having fun.
What about the uniform?
Once you have paid your joining fee and uniform deposit, you will be issued with the following items: Training Uniform :- Shirt - Jacket - Trousers - Beret - Brassard (for badges & awards) - Belt The boots cost as little as £20 but we can sometimes provide them for free depending on availability. On leaving the ACF you must return the uniform after which the uniform deposit will be returned.