Army Engagement Event

Army Engagement event at The Deanery CE Academy, Swindon with Colonel Gary McDade, Commander of the Army South West.

Last night (8th November 2023) Wiltshire ACF joined other Armed Forces units in the Army Engagement event. Our Cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) engaged with members of the public who were invited, also members of the Regular and Reserve Army units within Wiltshire. Fostering relationships with the aim of enhancing the Cadet Experience.

Major Tim Stokes had this to say "Massive thanks to our Professional Support Staff (PSS) who managed to put together a professional-looking stand, which given other units in attendance is a credit to the efforts put in.

Our cadets were exactly what was required to bring a different perspective to the conversations. Thanking them for their time, and exemplary behaviour during the evening.

Any future events like this, I believe should be fully supported, I can see the potential benefits from us just being in the room."

Wiltshire ACF Corps of Drums and Bugles were also in attendance, playing a mix of Bugle and Flute music for the guests as they arrived at the event.

What is an Army Engagement Event?

An Army Engagement event is a type of gathering that allows individuals to connect with members of the army and army cadet force to learn more about the work that they do. These events can take a variety of forms, from community outreach programs to career fairs, and are designed to help people gain a greater understanding of what it means to be a member of the army and army cadet force.

During an Army Engagement event, attendees may have the opportunity to speak with soldiers, learn about their experiences, and ask questions about the army and its operations. They may also be able to participate in activities that give them a taste of what it's like to be in the army, such as obstacle courses or tactical simulations.

These events are open to anyone who is interested in learning more about the army and army cadet force. They can be a great way to build relationships between the army and the community and to help people better understand the important work that members of the armed forces do every day.

The aim is to promote greater awareness and understanding of the Army, particularly amongst communities who may not have been exposed to us in the past. To do this, we invite as wide an audience as we can and seek to connect with a range of people who may or may not have pre-conceptions on what we do.

Cadet Force Adult Volunteers FAQs

Do I need to have served in the military?

No. We recruit all types of people. Our volunteers come from all walks of life and we welcome people from both military and civilian backgrounds.

Is the ACF part of the Army?

No. The ACF is a youth organisation which is sponsored by the Army but not part of it.

Can I get qualifications through ACF?

Yes. We are able to offer our adult volunteers a range of valuable qualifications from Adventurous Training and First Aid to Degree level vocational qualifications to name but a few.

How much time do I need to give up?

From as little as a few hours a week. Detachments meet one or two evenings a week. There are also optional weekend camps and competitions and a one or two-week annual camp, the highlight for cadets and many volunteers. We appreciate whatever time you can commit.

Do I get paid as a CFAV?

We are a voluntary organisation but we do pay for Travel Expenses and a small Volunteer Allowance for some activities.

For more information on becoming a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer see file below