Ready for Epic Adventures? Devon Army Cadets is calling!
Looking for something exciting and meaningful to do on weekends? Devon Army Cadets is perfect for young people aged 12 and up. It’s not just another after-school activity – it’s where you’ll take on real outdoor adventures, build leadership and communication skills, earn recognised qualifications, and make lifelong friends. You’ll gain confidence, push your limits, and learn skills that truly matter.
Parents can feel confident knowing their child is in a safe, structured environment with supportive adult supervision, developing into capable, responsible individuals.
Adults aged 18+ can also get involved by volunteering – gain valuable experience, inspire young people, and be part of a passionate and welcoming team.
Ready to make a difference? Join us today!
Find a detachment
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Cadets
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Adult volunteers
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Detachments
key information and contacts
Our County HQ is based at Pellew House, Exeter, and also serves as Devon’s own Weekend Training Centre (WETC).
With training facilities such as classrooms and outdoor space, as well as catering facilities and accommodation, a wide variety of ACF Training (both military and non-military) is conducted at Pellew House.
Looking for something different to do with your weekends? Devon Army Cadet Force isn’t just another after-school activity – it’s where you’ll discover what you’re truly capable of!
What’s in it for you?
- Real adventures – think outdoor challenges, teamwork missions, and experiences your friends will be jealous of
- Skills that actually matter – from leadership and communication to first aid and navigation
- Mates for life – meet like-minded people who’ll have your back
- Confidence boost – push your limits and surprise yourself with what you can achieve
- Qualifications – earn recognised certifications that look amazing on CVs and university applications
Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, want to build your confidence, or just fancy trying something completely different – we’ve got you covered!
We know you want the best opportunities for your child, and that’s exactly what Devon Army Cadet Force delivers. Our programme helps young people develop into confident, capable, and responsible individuals.
Why parents choose us:
- Safe, structured environment with qualified adult supervision
- Character development – leadership, teamwork, and personal responsibility
- Real-world skills – problem-solving, communication, and resilience
- Diverse opportunities – from outdoor activities to community service
- Recognised qualifications – boosting future education and career prospects
- Positive peer group – your child will be surrounded by motivated, like-minded young people
“I am very proud of Liam but no more prouder then since he joined Holsworthy ACF. He has grown so much as a person. He is more confident enthusiastic and mature. I’m so glad he joined Army Cadets."
Calling all adults (18+) – become a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer and help shape the next generation!
As a volunteer, you’ll:
- Inspire young people to reach their full potential
- Develop your own skills through training and new experiences
- Gain valuable qualifications while giving back to your community
- Join “Team Devon” supportive team of passionate volunteers
- Make a real impact in to the lives of young people
Ready to get started? Get in touch today and discover what Devon Army Cadet Force can do for you!
Colonel Steve Frost
Commandant
Colonel Frost has been a CFAV for 43 years. Before this time, he was an ex 4 Star cadet of 5 years. During his service as a CFAV, he has held most of the key roles within the ACF. He officially retired in 2018, however during his career he worked in numerous clinical, managerial and training roles finishing as a senior operational manager for the Ambulance Service. Since retirement he has worked on a number of projects for various NHS organisations in Dorset.
Lieutenant Colonel Ian Giblert
Deputy Commandant
Lt Col Gilbert completed 8 yrs Reserve service with the Royal Naval Auxiliary Service prior to joining the ACF as well as over 30 yrs service with Devon and Cornwall Constabulary. Now retired in addition to volunteering with the ACF he is a keen amateur historian.
Major Aimee Mitchell-White
County Training Officer
Major Mitchell-White began her ACF journey as a cadet, rising to 4-star Cadet RSM before becoming a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer. She has held ACF leadership roles including Detachment Commander, Company Commander, and HQ positions and has served as part of the Commissioning team at Westbury. A former Headteacher, she now leads Safeguarding and Attendance in a large Multi Academy Trust.
Major Sharon Parker-Brock
Adult Development Officer
Major Sharon Parker-Brock began her ACF journey in 2013 following her sons joining the organisation. She started as a Detachment Instructor before transferring from Manchester to Devon ACF in 2016. She has progressed through key training and development roles, including Detachment Commander, Company Training Officer, Assistant County Training Officer, and now serves as County Adult Development Officer. Sharon is retired but is also a voluntary welfare officer for the Tiverton Town Ability Football team.
Devon ACF is split into 4 areas:
A Squadron – covers East Devon and has seven troops. Honiton, Sidmouth, Crediton, Uffculme, Tiverton, Exmouth, Wyvern. The Squadron HQ is based at Tiverton.
B Company – has six detachments spread across Plymouth at the following locations: Crownhill, Marine Academy, Millbay, Mutley, Plympton and Plymstock and extending out to Ivybridge and Tavistock. The Company HQ is based at Millbay.
C Company – covers North Devon and currently has nine Detachments in the following areas: Barnstaple, Bideford, Braunton, Chulmleigh, Holsworthy, Ilfracombe, Okehampton, South Molton, Torrginton
D Company – D Company covers the southwest region of Devon and currently has seven detachments, Ashburton, Dawlish, Bovey Tracey, Newton Abbot, Torquay, Paignton and Totnes. Totnes is also the location of the company HQ.
Devon ACF Corps of Drums is the ceremonial heart of the County. The Corps consists of drums, bugles and flutes and adds music support to the County on parades and training events.
The Corps of Drums offers cadets and CFAV’s the unique chance to work with other cadets and CFAV’s from across the UK by attending Band camps giving them the chance to learn instruments and gain nationally recognised qualifications. Training is delivered for all abilities whether you can already play an instrument or are a complete beginner.
Interested? We look forward to meeting you soon!
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Success Stories
B Company Training Officer - Lt Richard Smith Inspired by my daughter’s curiosity at a Remembrance event, I re-joined the ACF after being a cadet some 20 years ago. Now a Lieutenant, I’ve gained confidence, skills and qualifications. I have grown as a leader, which has benefited me at work.
Latest News & Media Updates
Don't just take our word for it – check out inspiring stories, cross Devon and the UK!
Volunteers’ Week Spotlight: Lt Gina Allsop
6 June 2026
Volunteers’ Week Spotlight: Sgt Helen Hughes
5 June 2026
Volunteers’ Week Spotlight: Lieutenant Colonel Sarah Oxford
4 June 2026
Contact Information
For more information, please email or contact us at the office below:
HQ Devon ACFPellew House
Dryden Road
Exeter
Devon
EX2 5BY
- Email us: wx-dev-ao@rfca.org.uk
Join the Army Cadets today
Join the Army Cadets to embark on an exciting adventure, develop valuable skills and build lifelong friendships for young people between 12 to 18.
