Army Cadets 2025: A Year to be Proud of
A year of achievement, adventure & impact
As 2025 draws to a close, it is clear that this has been another remarkable year for Army Cadets across the UK. From national competitions and ceremonial events to adventurous training and community service, cadets and volunteers have shown commitment, resilience and teamwork on an impressive scale.
Watch this video from Brigadier Gary McDade as he summarises the incredible achievements of 2025!
A Strong and Growing Cadet Community
Across the country, more than 73,000 cadets and over 11,500 Cadet Force Adult Volunteers have taken part in fun, friendship, action and adventure in more than 1,500 detachments. Every week, young people have come together to learn new skills, challenge themselves and build lasting friendships in a supportive environment.
First aid training has once again highlighted the real-world impact of the cadet experience. During 2025 alone, more than 12,500 cadets achieved a recognised first aid qualification. These skills build confidence, encourage responsibility and, in some cases, genuinely save lives.
Competition, Sport and Skills for Life
Competition has featured strongly throughout the year. At the National First Aid Competition 2025, cadets from across the UK tackled demanding and realistic scenarios. Their calmness, knowledge and teamwork under pressure demonstrated just how capable and confident they are when it truly matters.
Sport has also brought cadets together on a national scale. The National Rugby and Archery Competition at Altcar showcased skill, determination and teamwork, while also creating friendships across counties and regions. We also celebrated excellence at an individual level, with Cadet RSM Jonathan Opoku-Anokye named Cadet Sportsperson of the Year 2025. His leadership, dedication and multi-sport achievements reflect the very best of Army Cadets.
Developing skills for life remains a priority. The Ex CADET STEM Challenge 2025 returned with 300 cadets gaining hands-on experience in technology, innovation and problem solving. For the first time, UK cadets also took part in Ex MAPLE DEFENDER, a trans-Atlantic cyber competition alongside Canadian cadets, combining STEM learning with teamwork, fun and international friendship.
Service, Inclusion and Looking Ahead
Service and remembrance have once again been central to the cadet experience. On Remembrance weekend in London, cadets played a proud role at events including Westminster Abbey, the Royal Albert Hall and the Cenotaph. Throughout the year, cadets have also represented Army Cadets at VE Day commemorations, national parades and high-profile events, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Camps, expeditions and exchanges have filled the year, from summer camps and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions to overseas challenges, music, sport and adventurous training. These experiences continue to push boundaries and help cadets discover what they are truly capable of.
This has also been a year of progress in inclusion and wellbeing, highlighted by Lt Col Rachel Diss receiving the Defence Inclusivity Award for her work championing respect and belonging across Army Cadets.
None of this would be possible without the dedication of our Cadet Force Adult Volunteers or the enthusiasm of our cadets. As we look ahead to 2026, we can be proud of what we have achieved together and confident in what lies ahead.