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Army Cadet Force

Personnel
Officer and Adult Instructors	7,880 (2006 est.)
Cadets	44,240 (2006 est.)
Percentage of Cadets who join British Armed Forces	25-30% (2005 est.)
Expenditure
MOD Budget (2006 est.)	£80 Million

The Army Cadet Force (ACF) is a British youth organisation that offers progressive training in a multitude of the subjects from military training to adventurous training and first aid, at the same time as promoting achievement, discipline, and good citizenship, to boys and girls aged 12 to 18 years and 9 months. Its affiliated organisation, the Combined Cadet Force provides similar training within various schools. It has connections to the training of the British Army.

Although sponsored by the Ministry of Defence and being very similar in structure and activity, the ACF is not a branch of the British Armed Forces, and as such cadets are not subject to military 'call up'. A proportion of cadets do, however, go on to enlist in the armed forces in later life, and many of the organisation's leaders - formally termed 'Cadet Force Adult Volunteers', or informally 'Adult Instructors' - come from a previous cadet service or military background.

The ACF can trace its beginnings back to 1859, when it was formed in order to prepare youths to enlist in the army in anticipation of an invasion by the French. It remained in existence after no invasion materialised, thanks in part to the influence of pioneer social worker Miss Octavia Hill, because of its positive benefits on youths. The ACF is a registered charity.

Training

A young person can join the ACF at age 12, providing they are attending school in year 8. Training begins with a short Induction Interview with the Detachment Commander, followed by a tour and introduction by a Senior Cadet. The new recruit is assimilated into the training immediately, but it can take between 1 to 3 months to be issued a uniform and be fully inducted into the unit.

Throughout their time through ACF, they move through the APC star system - a system that allows the cadets to learn the following activities listed below. After they have taken the skill to a certain level, they take a test. When they have completed that star levels requirements, they move up. Each star level allows cadets to be promoted through the ranks, but only NCO ranks.

Then cadets are taken through the basic and one-star syllabus of the Army Proficiency Certificate, including Drill, Shooting, Fieldcraft, Map and Compass, Military Knowledge, Expedition, First Aid, Skill at Arms, and Cadet in the Community.

The same subjects are assessed in more depth at two-star level, and mastered at three-star level. At three-star level, cadets can attend a Junior Cadet Instructors' Cadre (JCIC). This week-long course allows cadets to teach one-star and below subjects.

At four-star level, the cadet attends a Senior Cadet Instructors' Cadre (SCIC). This week-long course qualifies cadets to teach two-star subjects. To complete the four-star syllabus, the cadet must also choose one subject in which to specialise and improve further. This might be Skill at Arms, First Aid, or Signalling, for example.

Apart from the star-level assessments, cadets can achieve more experience by attending other, optional training weekends such as radio user and crossed flags courses, going on adventure training trips to work towards the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, or trying cadet leadership courses and NCO cadres.

There are also lots of sports and events to get involved in. Cadets can compete against other counties in athletics, cross country, football, first aid, swimming, tug of war, rugby, hockey, military skills, target shooting and many more. The ACF also competes on a national level.

By enrolling in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme at age 14 and applying for the BTEC First Diploma in Public Services at age 16 (and concurrently training at 3 Star level), it is easy to achieve both of these recognised qualifications for less cost than doing the same elsewhere.

Fieldcraft

In fieldcraft lessons, cadets learn infantry skills such as patrolling, section battle drills, ambush drills, harbour drills, and how to survive in the field. Field exercises take place about once every few months, and at annual camp.

Out on exercise, cadets wear DPM (disruptive pattern material) clothing, dulled boots, camouflage cream to eliminate the face's natural shine, a bush hat and foliage to break up the shape of the head and shoulders, webbing to carry rifle magazines and emergency rations, and a bergen to carry a sleeping bag and basha (improvised shelter) building materials. Cadets are issued with 24-hour ration packs and hexamine cookers as used by the infantry.

As part of a platoon, cadets set up harbour areas (operations bases), post sentries, and send out patrols to carry out reconnaissance, lay ambushes, and assault enemy positions. Cadets become familiar with a vast range of hand signals for silent communication, and various patrol formations for crossing different types of terrain, such as the arrowhead formation (pictured right) for crossing open country. Patrols stay in touch with military radio sets, operated by cadets who have passed courses in signalling.

Skill at Arms

New recruits are taught how to safely handle, clean, operate and fire the Number 8 Rifle and The L98A1 Cadet General Purpose 5.56 mm Rifle (GP). The GP is a single shot adaptation of the British Army's SA80 however it can be modified for multiple round shooting without cocking the weapon each time. This is achieved with a 'heckler and koch' conversion kit Individual Weapon, designed specifically for the cadet forces (Though senior cadets on some occasions do use the SA80, however, some ACF detachments are being issued with SA80 A1s which will replace the L98). Having mastered the GP and passed the one-star Skill at Arms test, cadets can fire it (using blank rounds) in field exercises as part of a section, taking part in ambushes and assaults on enemy forces. They can also fire live rounds on a range, usually at annual camps, gaining marksman badges if they are good enough. To pass one-star skill at arms, cadets must show they can handle the weapon safely, perform stoppage drills (actions that should be performed in the case of a stoppage) and field strip the weapon for daily cleaning.

Senior cadets, as part of three-star Skill at Arms, are introduced to the L86A1 Light Support Weapon, which, unlike the GP, has automatic capabilities. With its longer barrel and bipod, the LSW has a greater range and muzzle velocity, and with its SUSAT (Sight Unit Small Arms Trilux - the optical sight on top of the weapon), it also allows for greater accuracy. The LSW is also used by the infantry, and having mastered this more difficult weapon, cadets can mimic the tasks performed by regular army LSW gunners, using its higher rate of fire to provide fire support during section attacks. However, the LSW is slowly being phased out of service due to increase in military demand.

There is also a deactivated version, Cadet L103A1 DP (Drill Purpose). The DP is generally used for the teaching of cadets the basics of the weapon they are handling. It is also used for 'Rifle Drill' which is general drill but integrating motions carried out with the rifle, this can also be done effectively whilst marching.

The L98A1 Cadet GP Rifle is expected to be replaced some time within the next five years with a modified version of the L85A2 (SA80) which will be self loading but at the same time lack the L85A2's automatic capabilities. This rifle will be designated the L98A2. Though some adult instructors have confirmed this, there is no official verification regarding the replacement of the L98A1. In addition, due to the LSW's being partly withdrawn from cadet service to be issued to frontline troops, the chance of a replacement cadet weapon seems small.

The first of these new weapons will start to filter through to the cadet units but the start of 2008 at the earliest.

First Aid

Throughout their time in the Army Cadet Force, cadets learn first aid.

Early on, recruits learn how to handle incidents involving a casualty and how to get help. They then pick up the same basic skills taught to regular soldiers, including how to open a casualty's airway, checking breathing and circulation, perform CPR, placing a casualty in the recovery position, and deal with minor and major bleeding. Cadets may complete a British Heart Foundation "Heartstart" Course.

In two-star first aid, cadets learn how to recognise and treat a much wider variety of injuries and conditions, including burns, concussion and bone fractures, and shock, diabetes and epilepsy. The cadet two-star first aid assessment is equivalent to a St. John Ambulance young life saver qualification.

Progressing yet further, cadets can complete adult first aid qualifications (such as the Life Saver Plus qualification at training 4*), and opportunities to compete regionally and nationally in first aid competitions are open to most cadets.

Map and Compass

Another useful skill cadets learn is how to navigate using a map and compass. Cadets gain the same skills taught to soldiers so that they can plan operations and navigate any terrain. First, cadets learn to care for and use Ordnance Survey maps (and the MOD's maps produced by DGIA (Defence Geographic and Imagery Intelligence Agency) of United Kingdom Training Areas), plot and find six-figure grid references, calculate distances between points, and to recognise various conventional signs.

The two-star map and compass course then introduces cadets to the Silva (4/6400) and Suunto (M-5N) lightweight protractor compass. Cadets learn to use and plot grid and magnetic bearings in both mils and degrees, to understand the three different types of north, to account for deviation of the grid-magnetic angle, and to understand contour lines and more advanced conventional signs.

With this knowledge cadets can draw up route cards to undertake night navigation exercises or orienteering competitions.

Drill

A time-honoured tradition of the military, cadets are taught drill, which is a method of moving as an individual or as a body in a smart and soldier-like manner. It is also used to foster discipline, pride and teamwork.

Having learnt the positions of attention, saluting and turns at the halt, recruits progress onto marching in quicktime. Many drill movements can be executed while standing still and while marching, and also while holding a rifle.

Each year, drill is used for Remembrance Day parades, and at annual camps large parades take place, with a colour party, in which cadets with rifles march with and guard the standard-bearer.

Closely linked with a cadet's drill is his or her turnout - each cadet is issued with a uniform by the Ministry of Defence and shown how to care for it and appear smart at all times, with ironed-in creases and polished boots.

Shooting

After basic lessons on weapon handling and particularly safety, cadets are first taught to fire a 0.22 rifle on a 25 m range. Cadets are taught the principles of marksmanship - natural pointing, position and hold, sight alignment and shot release and follow through. These also apply to the GP Rifle, which is fired typically on 100 m, 200 m and 300 m ranges during annual camps or weekends away. Senior Cadets are also allowed to fire the Light Support Weapon (LSW) at the same ranges. The LSW is an automatic weapon with a SUSAT (Sight Unit Small Arms Trilux) scope.

Cadets who perform exceptionally in rifle shooting can achieve a range of proficiency badges and go on to earn county colours for representing the county at CADSAAM, the Cadet Annual Skill At Arms Meeting shooting competition. In the competition, teams of cadets fire at falling plate targets before getting up and running 100 m towards the target and firing again, then repeating the process, all against the clock.

Cadets also have the opportunity to fire the L81 A2 Cadet Target Rifle in competition at Brigade (CTRM), National (Interservices Cadet Rifle Meeting) and International (Dominion of Canada Rifle Association Matches) level. Many cadets go on to become part of the GB National team representing UK in many international competitions.

Rank System

As well as learning new skills by working through the APC Syllabus, experienced cadets can be awarded a rank. As the Army allows its soldiers to take on responsibility and leadership as non-commissioned officers (NCOs), so too does the Army Cadet Force give a greater role to some cadets.

The first rank a new cadet NCO will be given is that of a Lance Corporal(Or in Royal Artillery cadet units "Lance Bombardier"). To signify this a single stripe is worn on the brassard or rank slide. Lance Corporals are a part of the framework of their detachments. They assist with lessons, have authority over cadets and work with other cadet NCOs and Adult Instructors. In field exercises Lance Corporals normally have the position of second-in-command (2ic) of a section. Some units such as the Irish Guards, have a varying rank structure to others, beginning with the rank Corporal, moving to Lance Sergeant and then Sergeant. This is seen as a tradition however their Corporal remains the same rank as a Lance Corporal in other units, and Lance Sergeant the same as Corporal.

Above the Lance Corporals are the Corporals, who teach lessons (provided they are qualified to do so i.e. passed Junior Cadet Instructors Cadre at 3 Star), manage the Lance Corporals and act as the section commanders out in the field. Corporals are typically two-star qualified or above.

Above the Corporals are the Sergeants and Staff Sergeants or Colour Sergeants, and above these Sergeant Majors, usually holding the appointments of Company Sergeant Major (CSM) and Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) respectively.

Also in many counties there is the opportunity for promotion to Under Officer. Although this is not an official rank, it is a chance for senior cadets to gain experience as an officer. The titles of some ranks may vary as cadet detechments are badged to regiments of the Regular Army, and as such adopt their titles.

Lance Corporal/Lance Bombadier (One bar chevron, worn point down)
Corporal/Bombadier (Two bar chevron, worn point down)
Sergeant/Sarjeant (Three bar chevron, worn point down)
Staff Sergeant (Three bar chevron, worn point dowm, surmounted by a crown) or Colour Sergeants (The equivalent rank in the Infantry)
Company Sergeant Major (A Crown)
Regimental Sergeant Major (The Royal Arms)

Rank insignia for cadets are usually still the large chevrons (sewn on to the brassard, part of cadet uniform) that have not been used with the regular army for several years. However, use of rank slides is becoming increasingly common, generally among CCF units, but the rank slide must be marked with the letters ACF or CCF (whichever the cadet belongs to) at the bottom to distinguish from regular army ranks. Almost all ACF units still issue the outdated sew-on chevrons to cadets, with rank slides being reserved for adult instructors. However, it is not uncommon for cadet NCOs to purchase their own rank slides and wear them.

Also seen are Stable belts (belts in the colours of the cadets badged regiment) The rules for wearing these vary depending on company, for example in one county the rule is for the cadet to be training 3* (passed 2* working on 3*).

Adult Instructors

Adults may join the ACF to instruct through two different routes - as Adult Instructors or as Commissioned Officers. Prospective Adult Instructors begin as Probationary Instructors (PIs) before passing a medical, an enhanced disclosure and an Initial Training Course (ITC) held at the Cadet Training Centre Frimley Park, or at county level, at which point they attain the position of Adult Instructor (AI) and become a Sergeant Instructor (SI). Progressive training takes place for Adult Instructors, as with cadets, and an Adult Instructor may take part in various different courses, including that to become a Detachment Commander (DC). A further mandatory course at Frimley Park is the AI's (Adult Instructors) course which must be completed within three years of joining. The AI is then qualified to achieve the rank of Staff/Colour Sergeant (SSI). The King George VI (KG6) course is the final course for AI's and the further ranks of sergeant major (SMI), Company sergeant major (CSMI) and regimental sergeant major (RSMI) are possible. This makes the AI Promotion is given on a combination of experience, merit, and leadership potential; as in the Regular Army. Adult Instructors will be expected to work in a team with their superiors and senior cadets to be responsible for, and deliver effective training to the cadets.

The other route an instructor in the ACF may take is that of becoming a commissioned officer. The instructor will apply and partake in the same selection process as above, however once a Sergeant Instructor, the individual may apply or be nominated to become a commissioned officer. To do so, as of 2006, the individual must then attend a Cadet Forces Commissioning Board (CFCB), similar to an RCB though less physically testing. The applicant will be assessed on their fitness, medical state, literacy, problem solving ability, and leadership potential. Successful applicants will attend a course held at RMA Sandhurst, and upon successful completion, given a Class B (Reserve Forces) Commission of Her Majesty's Land Forces. During the selection/training process the applicant will hold the rank of Officer Cadet and then Under Officer, before receiving the initial rank of Second Lieutenant upon successful commissioning. Commissioned Officers in the ACF will hold senior leadership roles with more responsinility and commitment attached than roles occupied by Adult Instructors. The commissioned officers will also have a commitment to uphold the prestige of a commission in their personal discipline and behaviour - both on and off duty.

Organisation

Most British counties have centralised cadet forces that make up the ACF as a national whole. The counties are generally split into companies, each of which includes several 'detachments', the name given to a unit of cadets that parade in a particular town or village. Companies are usually affiliated with a certain Regiment or Corps within the British Army, and wear their insignia including cap badge, colour of beret and stable belt subject to individual County/Area regulations. Detachments can be given special names, after famous battles fought by the British army, e.g. Rhine, Gibraltar and Waterloo. But some detachments are just called by the name of the town they reside in.

On 1 April 2003, there were 7,640 officers and instructors and 43,550 cadets in the Army Cadet Force.

External links

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