Volunteer Cadet Force Leader — Shape Character & Adventure

William Ellis School is launching its Army Combined Cadet Force (CCF) at the start of the 2026–27 academic year — and we are looking for adults from our school community and beyond to help us build something genuinely worthwhile.

The CCF gives young men the kind of experiences that classrooms alone cannot. Challenge, responsibility, adventure, and service: these are the things that shape character. At William Ellis, we believe in nurturing students who are resilient, resourceful, responsible, respectful, and reflective — young men who are, in the words of our school motto, rather of use than fame. The CCF is one of the most powerful ways we know to bring those values to life.

This is an unpaid role.

Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) are the people who make a CCF contingent work. They plan and deliver cadet training, lead activities, support field days and camps, and act as role models for the young people in their charge. You do not need a military background — the MOD provides full training for all new CFAVs, and many of the most effective volunteers come from teaching, youth work, and other civilian walks of life. What matters is commitment, reliability, and a genuine interest in supporting young people to grow.

CFAVs can serve as commissioned officers or, in Army sections, as non-commissioned Sergeant Instructors. There is also a non-uniformed route as a Civilian Instructor, which carries no requirement for uniform or commissioning but allows you to contribute your skills directly to cadet training and administration.

The commitment centres on the weekly parade afternoon — 3:15 to 4:45pm on a day agreed with the Contingent Commander — plus field days once a term and an annual summer camp. You would also be expected to complete your mandatory basic training within two years of joining, with the school releasing you to attend courses. As a new contingent, you will be well supported by the Army's Cadet Training Team, who provide hands-on guidance to new CFAVs in the early years.

CFAVs can claim a Volunteer Allowance of up to 50 days per year for qualifying activities away from school, currently paid at £87.04 per day (taxable).

Because we are starting from scratch, this is a rare opportunity. You would be part of a founding team — shaping the culture, the programme, and the identity of a CCF that will serve William Ellis boys for years to come. The school's leadership is fully committed to making this contingent a success, and you will have the backing of an experienced headteacher and senior team, as well as the support of London District and the Army's regional Cadet Training Team.

If you are interested in finding out more, or would like an informal conversation about what being a CFAV involves, please contact the school.

William Ellis School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion. All appointments are subject to DBS checks and excellent references and an online media search.