Yorkshire N&W Army Cadets
County Mission Statement
As the Commandant of Yorkshire North and West Army Cadet Force my mission is to ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where both Cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers are empowered to grow, learn and thrive. Through encouragement, opportunity, and respect, we aim to help every individual realise their fullest potential-personally, socially, and as contributing members of our community.
Yorkshire North & West (YNW) Army Cadets is one of the largest Counties in the UK and is open to young people of all backgrounds and abilities aged from 12 to 18 years old. The Army Cadets is volunteer-led from our Headquarters in Queen Elizabeth II Barracks, Strensall, York. We are also supported by a team of permanent staff employed by the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association. Our Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) are the beating heart of our organisation and reflect the communities where we live and work.
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Key Information & Contacts
Our County HQ consists of Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (Yorkshire and the Humber) (RFCAYH) Permanent Support staff (PSS) in the following roles:
CEO – Cadet Executive Officer
CQM – County Quartermaster
COM – County Office Manager
The County Office manager has two office staff in support
The County has a number of PSS Cadet Admin Assistants, some of whom are employed within County HQ, and there is one at each of our five Company HQs, spread throughout North and West Yorkshire.
The County Commandant – Colonel
The County Deputy Commandant – Lt Colonel
Assistant Commandant (Personnel) – Major
Assistant Commandant (Procurement) – Major
County Training Officer – Major
County Comms, Media, Engagement, Honours & Awards Officer – Major
County Medical Support Officer – Major
Assistant County Training Officer – Captain
County Regimental Sergeant Major – RSMI
Records from 1950 mention our predecessor, the Yorkshire (West Riding) Army Cadet Force. By 1979, it had developed into the Yorkshire Army Cadet Force. The first distinction between the Yorkshire (North & West) ACF and their Humberside and South Yorkshire counterparts appears in a supplement to the London Gazette on 22 September 1992.
The national Army Cadet Syllabus (ACS) guides cadets through five progressive levels, covering a variety of topics.
- Drill and Military Knowledge: Cadets learn basic drill, military history, and regulations.
- First Aid and Medical Training: Cadets receive training in first aid and basic medical skills.
- Navigation and Expedition Training: Cadets learn to navigate using maps and compasses and prepare for expeditions, including outdoor survival and campsite management.
- Fieldcraft: Cadets learn to set up camps, prepare meals, and navigate the outdoors, developing their survival skills.
- Weapon Handling: Cadets learn how to safely handle and maintain cadet rifles.
- Community Engagement: Cadets participate in community service projects, fostering a sense of civic responsibility.
- Music: Some cadets may participate in marching bands or musical ensembles, developing musical skills and teamwork.
In addition:
- Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme: The Army Cadets offer the opportunity for cadets to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, a nationally recognized qualification focused on personal development and adventure.
- BTEC Diplomas: Cadets can earn BTEC diplomas through the Army Cadets, providing vocational qualifications that are recognized outside the cadet world.
Our stats
1300+
Cadets
250+
Adult Volunteers
43
Detachments spread across North and West Yorkshire
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RSM Mia Dodds At 12, I barely recognised myself—now at 17, the ACF has transformed my life. It’s been a whirlwind of challenges and triumphs. I’ve learned to break self-imposed limits, embrace opportunities, and believe that with effort, anything is possible.
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CSM Will Kelly Being a cadet changed my life—I’ve made lifelong friends, unforgettable memories, and grown into a confident, independent person. If you’re looking for fun, adventure, and a challenge, I’d definitely recommend joining your local ACF detachment!
Latest News & Media Updates
Get all the latest news from detachments across the UK, including inspiring stories, amazing expeditions, and upcoming events.
Volunteers’ Week Spotlight: Lieutenant Colonel Sarah Oxford
4 June 2026
Volunteering with the Army Cadets: Unlocking Skills, Confidence, and Making a Difference in the Community
4 June 2026
Volunteers’ Week Spotlight: 2Lt Lidia Pocock
3 June 2026
Contact Information
Yorkshire (N&W) Army Cadet Force HQThe Cadet Training Centre.
Building 107
Queen Elizabeth Barracks
Strensall
York
YO32 5SB
- Email us: yh-ynw-ao2@rfca.org.uk
- Call us: 01904 490529
Join 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.
