Cadet Force Adult Volunteer in Gloucester

Join to apply for the Cadet Force Adult Volunteer role at Gloucestershire Army Cadet Force (ACF)

Make a difference as an Adult Instructor. Lead, inspire, and grow while helping young people thrive. Gain skills, build confidence, and enjoy new experiences with full training and support.

Gloucestershire Army Cadet Force (ACF) operates in 21 locations throughout Gloucestershire, providing opportunities for young people to gain confidence, develop their potential, and enjoy unique adventures. Both Cadets and Adult Volunteers acquire new skills, qualifications, experiences, and friendships that last a lifetime. Our focus is on offering challenges, fostering growth, and equipping young people with valuable life skills. Adult Volunteers play a vital role in creating memorable experiences for cadets through a variety of activities, including weekday training, shooting ranges, expeditions, and water sports. No prior qualifications or military experience are needed—our comprehensive training supports passionate individuals in making a difference.

Make a Difference: Lead, Inspire, and Grow as an Adult Instructor

Becoming an adult instructor is a rewarding way to give back to your community and a great opportunity to try something a little different. You’ll become a trusted role model for the young people around you and help them grow into upstanding citizens. You’ll also get the opportunity to develop yourself, improve your confidence and leadership skills, and have many new and exciting experiences.

Whether you’re completely new to the cadet world or looking to get back involved, we’ll give you all the training, support, and encouragement you need to thrive.

Requirements

• Be 18 years old or over
• Complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS) or Access NI/PVG, depending on your location
• Successfully complete the induction and safeguarding training
• Be committed to supporting and mentoring young people
• Must have the right to remain in the UK

Already have experience in the Armed Forces or another cadet organisation? Your skills are highly valued. In some cases, you may be eligible to apply directly through a transfer or interview process – check with your local County HQ for details.

Most of our volunteers come from civilian backgrounds – what matters is your willingness to get stuck in and support others. We’ll guide you through a structured induction and give you the chance to learn at your own pace. Training is designed to be flexible and accessible, even if you’re fitting it around a job or family life.

Adult instructors are at the heart of our organisation. You’ll work closely with cadets aged 12–18, helping them develop practical skills through novel activities that range from fieldcraft and navigation to first aid and teamwork exercises.

Key responsibilities

• Help deliver weekly training sessions at your local detachment.
• Support weekend camps and residential courses.
• Lead adventurous training and outdoor challenges.
• Serve as a role model and mentor to young people from all backgrounds.

Benefits of volunteering

• Build leadership and communication skills – both highly valued in civilian careers.
• Achieve qualifications in areas like first aid, outdoor instruction, and safeguarding.
• Be part of a community of like‑minded volunteers who support and challenge each other.
• Make a genuine difference in the lives of young people.

You don’t need to commit to full‑time hours; many volunteers give a few hours a week, but the rewards of being part of something bigger can last a lifetime.

Support and training

• A mentor and a team of experienced instructors to guide you.
• Opportunities to shadow sessions before taking the lead.
• Access to local and national training courses.
• Ongoing support to develop your skills and confidence.

Training courses

Training courses are available at the Cadet Training Centre, Frimley Park, covering various aspects of leadership and instruction. For more information, visit https://armycadets.com/find-a-detachment/.

Location: Gloucestershire, England, United Kingdom.