Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter
May 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
VE 80 DAY CELEBRATIONS
Marking 80 years since Victory in Europe Day
Across the South East, communities came together to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day — a powerful tribute to those who served and sacrificed during the Second World War.
Read some of the highlights from this historic occasion across the South East.
VOLUNTEERS WEEK 2025
Volunteers’ Week is back – Monday 2 June to Sunday 8 June!
Join us in celebrating the incredible dedication of our Reserves and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers.
Whether in uniform or behind the scenes, their commitment makes a lasting impact on young people and our communities.
RESERVES NEWS
Championing the Value of Reserve Service
UNIVERSITY OFFICER TRAINING CORPS
Planning to start university this September?
Consider joining the British Army’s University Officers’ Training Corps (UOTC). It’s a great way to gain new skills, meet new people, and take part in exciting activities, all alongside your studies and social life. Plus, you’ll be paid for the time you spend with them.
OFFICER CADETS CONQUER THE HIMALAYAS: A JOURNEY OF ENDURANCE AND INSPIRATION
This month, a team of Officer Cadets from Oxford
University Officer Training Corps undertook an extraordinary three-week expedition through Nepal, culminating in a successful ascent of Lobuche East (6,119m), a formidable Himalayan peak.
The trek pushed the team to their physical and mental limits. From steep inclines and thinning air to unpredictable mountain weather, the journey demanded resilience, adaptability, and an unshakeable sense of teamwork. Their efforts were a powerful demonstration of the core values that define life at the OTC—courage, discipline, and camaraderie.
The adventure didn’t end at the summit. After the climb, the team enjoyed a well-earned day in Kathmandu, taking time to rest, reflect, and experience the rich culture and warm hospitality of Nepal.
This unforgettable expedition highlights the incredible opportunities available through the OTC. As OCdt T. Davies reflected: “Never did I think from my first day at university that I would be trekking through the Himalayas and waking up to sunrise over Everest.”
7 RIFLES RESERVE SHOOTING COMPETITION
7 Rifles are the 3UK Division Reserve shooting champions! 
The Waterloo Band and Bugles of The Rifles is hosting an Open Day on Saturday 31st May at Edward Brooks Barracks, Abingdon — and you’re invited!- Location: Edward Brooks Barracks, Abingdon
- Date: Saturday 31st May
- for further information, click here.
DO YOU WANT TO BE A RESERVIST?
SOCIAL MEDIA
CADET NEWS
Promoting the Cadet Experience
FOLKSTONE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS COMBINED CADET FORCE BIANNUAL INSPECTION
The cadets and staff of the Folkestone School for Girls Combined Cadet Force (CCF) were recently honoured to welcome Brigadier Andrew Wood for their biannual inspection.
As a contingent proudly bearing the Royal Engineers cap badge, the visit held particular significance, with Brigadier Wood himself a distinguished Royal Engineer. His presence added a personal touch to the occasion, strengthening the bond between the contingent and their affiliated corps.
The event concluded with the presentation of the donated sword to the contingent’s Best Cadet—Corporal Oonagh Kelly of Malta Platoon from Year 11, in recognition of their outstanding commitment and leadership…read more.
Sussex Wing RAF Air Cadets is looking for passionate and dedicated volunteers to join their amazing team!
With a variety of roles available both in and out of uniform, there is something for everyone!
GOLD STANDARD VICTORY FOR SURREY ACF AT CADET CAMBRIAN PATROL
A team of Cadets from Surrey Army Cadet Force took on the ultimate test of skill, endurance, and teamwork at the prestigious Cadet Cambrian Patrol in the rugged Sennybridge Training Area – and emerged triumphant. Out of 20 elite teams, they were one of only three to achieve the coveted Gold Standard patrol.
But they didn’t stop there.
For the second year running, Surrey ACF was crowned Best ACF Team, proving once again that their grit, determination, and leadership are unmatched.
The winning team, led by Cdt CSM Sherriff (Patrol Commander) and Cdt CSgt Lockyer (2IC), included: Cdt Sgt Vitulli, Cdt Sgt Rainger, Cdt Cpl Blanchard, Cdt Cpl Bourke, Cdt Cpl Quayle, and Cdt LCpl Grantham.
Their outstanding performance is a testament to their hard work and the high standards of Surrey ACF. Congratulations to the entire team on this incredible achievement!
FIRST FLIGHTS, LIFELONG MEMORIES!
Cadets from 1827 Odiham Squadron RAFAC took to the skies for their first-ever Air Experience Flights in a Grob Tutor at MoD Boscombe Down! With perfect blue skies overhead, the cadets suited up, learned crucial aircraft ingress/egress drills, and took flight in an unforgettable airborne adventure.
From understanding flight controls to actually taking control of the stick themselves, each cadet got hands-on flying experience — bringing their technical training to life in the most exhilarating way!
Well done to all cadets for embracing the challenge and soaring to new heights!
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BEING A CADET FORCE ADULT VOLUNTEER?
EMPLOYER ENGAGEMENT NEWS
Encouraging Employers to Support Defence
THANET ALTHLETICS CLUB SIGN ARMED FORCES COVENANT
Lt Col Nathan Horsman, Commanding Officer of 3rd Battalion, The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment, kindly hosted the club at the Battalion HQ in Canterbury, where he and Club Chair Julien Lawton signed the Armed Forces Covenant—demonstrating their commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.
As an RAF Reservist and father of a former 3 PWRR soldier (now training as a Royal Marine), Julien understands first-hand the value and opportunities that Reserve service offers….read more.
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:
SURREY CADET TRAINING CENTRE
Being just off the A3 this venue is highly accessible from London. Ideal for day time training and longer-term lettings
- The conference room for up to 15 people makes a great meeting space.
- The dining room can accommodate up to 50.
- Fully equipped kitchen; can be utilised Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm
- Affordable pricing
Interested in hiring this venue? Get in touch today!
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. Our current vacancies include:
- Estate Manager – Health, Safety and Compliance (HSEP) – SERFCA HQ, Aldershot.
- Cadet Stores Assistant – The Royal County of Berkshire Army Cadet Force – Reading, Berkshire
Follow us on Indeed to be alerted of new vacancies.
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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