What sort of people become cadet force adult volunteers?
Our cadet force adult volunteers come from all walks of life. Many have been in the cadets and stay on to become adult volunteers. Others come from a military background or are the parents of current or past cadets. Others are people who simply want to do their bit and be part of a youth movement that can transform the lives of young people in their local community. What they all have in common is a commitment to create fantastic opportunities for our cadets and to support them to be the best they can be.
What qualifications do I need?
To become a volunteer adult instructor you need to be a British or Commonwealth citizen aged between 18 and 55 years old. You should be reasonably fit and feel you can make a difference to the lives of young people. Full training is given and uniforms are provided where appropriate.
How much time would I need to commit?
The normal commitment is one or two evenings a week plus some weekends. Adult instructors have the opportunity to attend camps, both in the UK and overseas, and take part in adventurous training activities.
What sort of training would I receive?
All adult volunteers receive training and personal development and see their curriculum vitae enhanced as a result. In addition, they benefit from being able to take part in a range of activities that might not otherwise be available to them. For example, a group of Yorkshire instructors took part in a four-week expedition to the Himalayan mountains. More usually, adult instructors all have the opportunity to acquire First Aid qualifications, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme passes and diplomas and graduate level qualifications in leadership and management through the BTEC scheme.
Will I be paid?
The position of adult instructors is voluntary. However, travelling expenses are paid and you can earn up to 21-28 days’ pay each year for training at weekends, annual camp and attending courses. In addition, some employers offer paid leave to adult instructors who need time off to attend annual camps.
What safeguarding checks would I be subject to?
The safety and security of young people in the cadet forces is of paramount importance and is subject to the MOD Cadet Forces Safeguarding Framework. A link to this is at the bottom of this page. Anyone who works with young people must also be willing to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
How do I become a cadet force adult volunteer in Yorkshire and the Humber?
If you would like to become a volunteer adult instructor with a cadet force in Yorkshire, please go to the find a unit section of our website or call:
Sea Cadets – 07930 179633:
Army Cadets (Humberside & South Yorkshire) – 07701 380617:
Army Cadets (North & West Yorkshire) – 01904 490529:
Central & East Yorkshire Wing RAF Air Cadets – 07775 986418:
South & West Yorkshire Wing RAF Air Cadets – 07919 303119.