Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter
August 2025
Our Vision
“To be an enduring and essential pillar in the delivery of support for the well-being of the Reserves and Cadets and, through our effectiveness and our position in the regions, to be the independent body that represents their interests and promotes understanding between the Armed Forces and civil society”
LATEST NEWS
SUMMER CAMPS!
Cadets from all five MoD-sponsored organisations took part in a wide range of unique and inspiring experiences this summer at their annual camps.
Our senior leadership team visited seven Army Cadet Force camps in Okehampton, where cadets and volunteers enjoyed an unforgettable time. The training and activities were imaginative and wide-ranging—from military-focused sessions to high-energy adventure training.
Sea Cadets and the Volunteer Cadet Corps had equally exciting experiences in locations including the Isle of Wight, Longmoor, Weymouth, Poole Harbour, Scarborough, Sheppey, Halton, Westdown, and Eastbourne.
Meanwhile, RAF Air Cadets took part in flying, caving, gorge scrambling, mountain biking, climbing, abseiling, hill walking, and the thrilling Air Cadet Muster at RAF Brize Norton.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs), Cadet Training Teams, and our Professional Support Staff for making this summer unforgettable. Your dedication has made a lasting impact on countless young people—an outstanding achievement, especially in the face of ongoing challenges.
RESERVES NEWS
Championing the Value of Reserve Service
UNIVERSITY OFFICER TRAINING CORPS
Planning to start university this September? Want to develop leadership skills, get paid to train, and experience military life—without committing to a full-time career in the Armed Forces?
The University Royal Naval Unit, University Officer Training Corps and University Air Squadrons are like no other university societies.
You’ll meet like-minded students, build confidence, and gain valuable experience that employers (military or civilian) respect. Whether you’re curious about a military career or just want to push yourself, this is your chance to do something different.
Meet Sergeant James Perry, a Physical Training Instructor with 3rd Battalion The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment and Fitness Consultant for Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
James is the first lateral entry sergeant in his Reservist role – a landmark achievement earned through a rigorous selection process. He is now preparing to take on the position of Quartermaster Sergeant Instructor for his Battalion after completing the Advanced Physical Training Instructor Course later this year in October 2025.
Supported by Kent Fire and Rescue Service and his family in Kent, James balances two demanding careers: “If you are committed, it is one of the most rewarding choices you can make. You will be challenged physically and mentally, but you will also gain confidence, resilience, and skills that transfer directly to civilian life.”
His story demonstrates how Reserve service can elevate both military and civilian roles. Read his full bio here
OXFORD UNIVERSITY OFFICER TRAINING CORPS “EX BLUE LABOUCHE
Over three unforgettable weeks, a team of 12 Officer Cadets from Oxford University Officer Training Corps embarked on a challenging and inspiring expedition through the majestic Himalayas in Nepal — culminating in the successful summit of Lobuche East (6,119m)…read more.
Here at SERFCA we were delighted to provide some of the funding towards the trip, alongside The Ulysses Trust, Army Sports Lottery, Sandhurst Trust, Adventurous Training Group and RMAS — thank you for their generous support in making this expedition possible.
RAF Medical Reserves | Balancing the NHS and RAF
Being part of the RAF Medical Reserves is more than just a role, it’s a source of pride.
In this video, hear from an RAF medical reservist as he talks about why serving means so much to him and how the NHS supports his role
RAF Medical Reserves balance their NHS and civilian careers whilst helping the RAF deliver vital medical support when it matters most.
HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF SUPPORT FOR RESERVIST FAMILIES
Are you part of a Reservist’s family or have experience supporting one?
Take part in a research project by PHD Student Matt Albrighton who is exploring the welfare and support needs of Reservist families—not just during deployment, but in everyday life.
Your views, experiences, and opinions are vital. By completing this short survey, you’ll contribute towards:
- Understanding the real needs of Reservists and their families
- Identifying any gaps in current support services
- Making informed recommendations for better support in the future
- Highlighting areas for further research
To complete the survey, click here
DO YOU WANT TO BE A RESERVIST?
MEDIA
The latest edition of Cadet Link is here! 📘✨
Packed with inspiring stories, volunteer highlights, cadet achievements, and updates from across the Cadet Forces – this is your inside look at the incredible impact our community is making.
📖 Read it now: Cadet Link Autumn 2025
We’re Live!
Our brand-new website is officially launched! Whether you’re already part of the Cadet Forces or curious about becoming an Adult Volunteer, this is your go-to hub for info, inspiration, and getting involved.
🌐 Explore now: adultvolunteer.org
📣 Share with anyone who’s ready to make a difference in young people’s lives!
CADET NEWS
Promoting the Cadet Experience
NEW FUNDING TO BOOST CADET FORCE BY OVER 40,000 BY 2030
Young people will have more chances to join the Armed Forces Cadets, under a major expansion of cadet forces across the country, announced on Wednesday 20 August.
- New ‘30 by 30’ drive to increase cadets by 30% by 2030 backed with £70 million as Government delivers on Strategic Defence Review.
- RAF Air cadets to become first military youth organisation in Britain approved to train young people in official drone pilot qualifications.
- Search launched for new National Cadet Champion to boost awareness of how cadets can transform futures for young people and break down barriers to opportunity.
Delivering on the Strategic Defence Review, this would see over 40,000 more cadets across the UK, supporting the Government’s Plan for Change to break down barriers which are holding back Britain’s young people…read more.
CFAV SPOTLIGHT: SUB LIEUTENANT (SCC) ROB STREETER RNR
Meet Sub Lt (SCC) Rob Streeter RNR from Woking Sea Cadets! After retiring, Rob joined as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer to give back and reconnect with his love for the sea.
With no prior cadet or military experience, he’s become an Advanced First Aid Instructor and supports cadets on and off the water.
His favourite part? Watching young people grow in confidence and achieve more than they thought possible. Thinking about volunteering? Rob says: “Do it!”…read more
🚀 Up, Up, and Away! ✈️
Experience the thrill of flight from the cockpit of a glider as Cadets from Kent RAF Air Cadets take off!
From ground to sky in seconds—this is what adventure looks like.
📹 by Stewart Turkington
CADET SPOTLIGHT: CADET SERGEANT OPHELIA O’BRIEN
Meet Cadet Sergeant Ophelia O’Brien, 17, from Benenden School and the John Wallis Academy CCF. Inspired by her father, an officer in the British Army, Ophelia joined the Cadets to be part of a close-knit community—and she’s never looked back.
With qualifications in First Aid, CFIT, CCS 3*, and GP Rifle Marksman, she’s found the training not only rewarding but valuable in real-world volunteering roles. For Ophelia, the best part of being a Cadet is the unbreakable bonds formed through teamwork and trust…read more
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BEING A CADET FORCE ADULT VOLUNTEER?
EMPLOYER ENGAGEMENT NEWS
Encouraging Employers to Support Defence
The Walk-In provides a safe place for information and guidance, and a chance to meet with a range of support services. Find our more here.
HAS YOUR ORGANISATION SIGNED THE ARMED FORCES COVENANT?
ESTATES
Providing the best place to work and train
ALTERNATIVE VENUES
Alternative Venues South East has a range of interesting buildings in an area stretching from Oxfordshire to Kent. They include 19th Century Houses and modern state-of-the-art training facilities, all of them large well-equipped Army Reserve Centres and Cadet detachments – ideal for business, sporting, training and social activities. Most of the venues are available seven days a week and all of the Army Reserve Centres have professional catering facilities and secure parking.
VENUE OF THE MONTH:
CROWBOROUGH CADET TRAINING CENTRE
Situated in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Crowborough offers a great opportunity for corporate away days.
With overnight accommodation and dining space for 140 people the site provides a private base for team building sessions and outward bound activities within the area.
The site suits filming with boarding school-style dorms, modern amenities, and weekday-exclusive use.
A commercial kitchen is also available for long-term lets (Monday to Friday only) and is easily accessed with a direct entrance and private wash facility.
Available for:
- Filming
- Training
- Corporate Events
- Private Functions
- Meetings
MANAGING THE VOLUNTEER ESTATE, RESERVE AND CADET BUILDINGS
JOB VACANCIES
Our staff are employed as Crown Servants, with flexible working arrangements offered. We also offer generous benefits and a supportive atmosphere.
Follow us on Indeed to be alerted of new vacancies.
- Cadet Administrative Assistant – Hampshire & Isle of Wight Army Cadet Force (Winchester)
If you’re thinking of joining our team, find out more About Us and what we’ve been working on in our Latest News
LATEST PUBLICATIONS
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