Progression Opportunities

When you join the Army Cadets, you’ll be issued a uniform to care for as part of your journey. As you progress through training, you may earn promotions —rewards for leadership, teamwork, and living by cadet values—not just for passing star levels.

Climb the Ranks, Build Your Future

When you join Army Cadets you are provided with a uniform which you are responsible for maintaining throughout your cadet career. As you progress through the Army Cadet Syllabus (ACS) and progress to higher star levels, you may be promoted to a higher cadet rank. Each rank is indicated by a badge worn on your rank slide, which is a tab on the front of your shirt or jacket.

Cadet promotions are awarded based on the show of values and standards which they show during their training and participation in cadet activity and not given solely on the passing of a star level, although ranks cannot be given to those below the stated star levels. Cadets must earn the right to be promoted by showing kindness, helping others, positive attitude and showing leadership skills within their detachment and county.

What are ACS Star Levels?

An ACS Star represents the various levels of progression within the Army Cadet Syllabus, marking the milestones of a cadet’s development and achievements as they advance through their training. You can tell the star level of a cadet by a badge which is worn at the top of the patch on their right arm.

Cadet Promotions of Rank

Promotions are based on the achievement of the relevant star level, alongside the cadet's overall actions, performance, attitude, and behaviour and leadership potential.