Your experience matters
You’re not coming in cold. And we’ll never treat you like a novice.
As a service leaver, when you join our Veteran to Volunteer Pathway, your experience is recognised from day one, relevant skills are respected, and unnecessary repetition is avoided.
The aim is simple: build on what you already know, not put you back to basics for the sake of it.
You know the drill – good organisations value experience. This one does too.
Your route. Before you walk it.
Your time matters. To you and to us.
That is why we are upfront about what’s involved before you decide anything.
We know every veteran’s service looks different. That’s why we take time to understand your unique skills, experience, and military qualifications, shaping your training to your current skills level – so you can focus on what’s new, not what you’ve already mastered.
Hear it from people who have done it.
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Louise Sandher-Jones MP - Former Minister for Veterans and People Veterans bring valuable skills, experience and dedication that inspire others. By volunteering with the Army Cadets, they can keep making a difference, helping young people build confidence, resilience and skills for the future.
You're in control of the next step.
There’s no pressure to rush and no expectation to commit early.
You can talk things through, ask questions and decide what fits your life before moving forward.
Some service leavers step in quickly. Others take time. Both are fine.
We value your perspective and feedback.
Myth Busting FAQs
Think you know what Army Cadet volunteering involves? Many veterans are surprised. Let’s bust a few common myths.
The time commitment varies based on your role and lifestyle. Most volunteers give around 2-4 hours per week, usually on a weekday evening or two when cadets meet at their local detachment. There are also opportunities throughout the year, such as weekend activities and annual camps, but how much you take on is flexible and fits around your other commitments. Many veterans find that even a few hours a week can be incredibly rewarding – both for them and the young people they support.
As a volunteer, you could find yourself teaching trabajo de campo, leading formación aventurera, helping cadets prepare for their Premio Duque de Edimburgo, or simply being a trusted adult who listens and encourages. The role is varied and no two weeks are the same. You don’t need to be an expert in everything – you’ll be part of a team, and there are plenty of ways to contribute based on your interests and strengths.
Each veteran applicant is individually assessed on what additional training is needed. If you’re already a qualified instructor, bring your qualifications with you and just complete the “Safe person” training in safeguarding and working with children.
Your military background gives you a natural advantage. Skills like leadership, discipline, navegación, primeros auxilios and teamwork are exactly what cadets are learning – and you’ve already lived them. You’ll also understand the values and ethos that underpin the cadet experience. Whether you served for 4 years or 24, your knowledge and perspective can help shape a young person’s future in ways that classroom learning simply can’t.
Far from it. The Army Cadets deliver structured youth development with meaningful training, qualifications and real responsibility. You’ll help shape confident, capable young people – not supervise from the sidelines.
Like any organisation, there’s paperwork – but roles are shared across the team. You can choose how you contribute.
- Prefer hands-on delivery? Join as an instructor.
- Want to take on leadership and management? Consider becoming an officer.
The ethos may feel familiar – but the environment is youth-centred, supportive and far more flexible. There’s no operational pressure, postings or deployments. The focus is on development, mentorship and opportunity.
There are no upper age limits. Experience, patience and maturity are powerful assets in a cadet detachment.
Units blend veterans and civilians exceptionally well. Everyone brings different skills and perspectives – but the mission unites the team: giving young people the best possible start.
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Casos de éxito
Maj Jim Chappell
Watch Jim's Story Here >If you’re leaving the Army, I’d strongly recommend joining the Army Cadets as a volunteer. It’s a chance to give back, be a role model, and inspire the next generation — on your terms. You choose what you can offer, and every bit makes a difference.
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Casos de éxito
SSgt Clifford O'Farrell
Watch Clifford's Story Here >If you’re a veteran wondering what’s next, join the Army Cadets. It’s military-themed, but it’s your experience to shape. Bring your skills, regain that sense of purpose, and serve again — this time by building the next generation.
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Casos de éxito
Sgt Richard Ward
Watch Richard's Story Here >If you’re missing the green kit, join the ACF as a veteran volunteer. You’ve lived the life - now pass it on. Your experience and resilience can inspire the next generation, while bringing back the camaraderie and purpose you’ve been missing.
About the Army Cadets
Discover the Army Cadets - explore exciting activities, the benefits of volunteering, and roles available to make a difference.
Plan de estudios para cadetes
¿Por qué hacerse voluntario?
Funciones y oportunidades de voluntariado
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Historias de cadetes
Tyler, 14, Lincolnshire
Cadets success stories >My dad was in the Army, but I never really understood what that meant until I joined cadets. The veterans who help out are amazing – they tell us real stories and teach us properly. One of them helped me with my Duke of Edinburgh expedition.
¿Listo para inspirar?
Hazte voluntario hoy mismo y forma parte de algo extraordinario. Comparta su experiencia, inspire a los jóvenes y tenga un impacto duradero.