Frequently Asked Questions.

This page contains questions and answers that we get asked. If you have a question that are not listed here then please email recruiting@bcoy.co.uk.
 		  
 

 


Cadet FAQ's

We had many questions asked by email, phone and at platoon locations, here is a selection of the most common questions and answers.

What is the ACF ?

The Army Cadet Force (ACF) is a voluntary youth organisation sponsored by the Army. All the instructors are volunteers.

What would I be doing ?

You will attend your local platoon 2 evenings per week for about 2½ hours for training and some outside activities. You can go away to weekends 6 times a year and an annual camp which lasts for 1 week


If this is Army based do I get to look the "bizz" ?

Definitely. We will issue you on loan the uniform and equipment, which when you are wearing, must be kept up to the high standards expected from your platoon commanders.

Will this cost me a fortune ?

Only £10.00 - £20.00 to join, £10.00 - £20.00 for weekends away and £30.00 for annual camp. We provide the transport, food and a roof over you head !

This sounds good am I old enough ?

If you are between 12 (and in Year 8) to 17 years old you can apply to your local platoon. See the enrolment page for instructions. If you are near 18 years old then you might want to consider to become an adult instructor.

If I want to join the cadets ?

Click on our "Enrolment" page for more information. This is for boys and girls, we already have lots of each so friends are always available.

Do I have to join the army if I am in the cadets ?

If your training record is good you can join but no, there is no pressure or obligation to do so. We will give you references even if you leave after a few months, if asked.

What if I have asthma or some other problem ?

This may not be a problem, every applicant is carefully considered, the Platoon commander will be able to make a decision when you give him your medical details.

What do I do training for ?

We have a army proficiency system. It has different levels of assessment. The levels start at Half Star and move on through 1, 2 and 3 star until you get to 4 star. 4 star is the hardest.

What will I get from a camp ?

The aim of all our cadet weekends is Achievement. We hope that after completing certain weekends you will walk away with some more parts towards your star badges.

What types of other training are there ?

As well as the star training we also train in radio's, shooting, first aid and many other types of activities.

 


   


Adult FAQ's

Will I get paid for being an adult instructor in the ACF?

The short answer is yes, but no one joins for the money. You will get paid at rates of pay similar to those of the Territorial Army for up to 28 days per year. However it is not something any ACF adult instructor focus on and most do many more days for the enjoyment of it. The real rewards are seeing cadets turn into promising young men and women who will make a positive contribution to society.

Would I get paid any expenses?

Allowances for out of pocket travelling expenses are available.

As an adult instructor in the ACF would I be liable for military call up in the event of a national emergency?

No. Adult Instructor are not liable for military duty.

Before becoming an ACF Adult Instructor will I have to undergo any security vetting?

Yes. Because you will be working with young people we have to check that you do not have anything which would bar you from contact with children. This process is now carried out by all organistions working with young people and takes a short while during your initial induction period.

Do I need any specialist skills or previous experience to become an adult instructor with the ACF?

No, the ACF will teach you all you need to know about the military skills and about working with and developing young people.

What is the time commitment?

The commitment is as much as you want to make it, but clearly there are responsibilities that go along with being in charge of cadets and if you don't turn up they don't get the chance to train. Most detachments meet once or twice a week, there are occasional weekends away and you will be expected to attend the annual camp which is one or two weeks outdoor activity usually in the summer months.

Can I gain any qualifications in the ACF?

Yes, as well as in house qualifications the ACF also offers the opportunity to gain widely recognised qualifications such as NVQs and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. Training its volunteers is part of the ACF's core business and it is very aware of what it can add and makes sure it does add to the CVs of its adult instructors.

Will I have to buy any uniform?

No all your uniform will be provided as will all the equipment you need to lead and train cadets.

Do I need to have some military background to become an adult instructor in the ACF?

Not at all, ACF adult instructors are youth workers first and foremost. We can teach you all the military skills, it is your ability and enthusiasm to work with young people that we need.

For more information Email: recruiting@bcoy.co.uk

Adult questions source - www.armycadets.com