The Royal County of Berkshire ACF Journal 2024

Berkshire ACF

2024

Journal

A spectacular year in review ANNUAL CAMP 2024

A YEAR OF FANTASTIC ACHIEVEMENTS

A note from the Commandant 2024 has been an incredible year for the Royal County of Berkshire Army Cadet Force, and I am delighted to welcome you to this edition of the Berkshire Journal. In this issue, we will take a moment to reflect on the year’s outstanding achievements and celebrate the hard work of everyone involved.

Throughout the year, we have witnessed remarkable accomplishments from both our Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) and cadets. Their dedication and commitment to making a difference are truly inspiring. Berkshire ACF stands proudly within our local community, providing young people with valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and develop skills for life.

Our mission to deliver structured and progressive training, with excitement, vigour, and energy, has been at the heart of everything we do. I am proud to say that we have not only met this goal but exceeded it in many areas.

I am proud to be able to lead such a fine group of dedicated cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers. I also want to take this opportunity to thank you all - cadets, CFAVs, Professional Support Staff and parents, families and friends for all your support over the last year. Without you, this organisation simply wouldn't function.

We hope you enjoy this issue as we look back on an extraordinary year of growth and success.

Anthony

COLONEL ANTHONY SHALLOW COMMANDANT To Inspire, To Achieve 01

Contents FEATURES

05

ANNUAL CAMP 2024

11

SHOOTING CHAMPIONS

12

THE CADET RSM

13

A YEAR OF SUCCESS

18

CFAV SUCCESS

24

A YEAR IN REVIEW

A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS

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SUMMER ADVENTURE:

Cadets Conquer Annual Camp: A Week of Progress, Adventure, and Lasting Friendship

Delivering a range of different activities to cadets from across The Royal County of Berkshire.

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This year’s annual camp at Beckingham Camp, Strensall, was an outstanding success, bringing cadets from across the county together for a week of personal growth, camaraderie, and challenging new experiences. Hosting the Norwegian Cadets added an exciting international element, with the 3-star cadre training alongside their Norwegian peers and enjoying a cultural day in York, where cadets explored historic sites and deepened their international friendships.

The camp welcomed 245 cadets, each with a packed programme including fieldcraft, skill at arms, shooting, and adventurous training. A proud highlight was seeing some cadets ride a bike for the very first time—an inspiring example of the confidence and skills developed at camp. Together, cadets earned an impressive 1,025 subject passes, demonstrating the hard work and commitment that defined the week.

Cadets taking on the Obstacle Course, testing their endurance and team working.

Scaling the Climbing Wall and taking part in some axe throwing as part of adventurous training package

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NEW CFAVS UNDERGOING INDUCTION TRAINING

DISCOVER YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

In addition to core skills, the camp delivered dedicated 4star training and an induction training for new adults, both crucial to developing well-rounded cadet leaders and supporting adult volunteers. Senior cadets took part in leadership training, refining their ability to guide and motivate others, ensuring that these vital skills remain at the heart of our mission.

Annual Camp is also an invaluable time for cadets across the county to reconnect with friends, bond as a unit, and make memories that will last a lifetime. The role of our Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) in making this possible cannot be overstated. Their dedication and sacrifice, investing countless hours and nearly nine months of planning, make this experience a reality year after year.

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The camp’s visitors’ day brought together special guests, including ex-commandants, Col Cadets HQSE, the Mayor of Earley, and the Honorary Colonel, whose presence celebrated our cadets’ hard work and dedication. These esteemed visitors underscored the importance of our mission, inspiring cadets to carry forward the values they’re learning.

Annual Camp 2024 at Beckingham Camp was an unforgettable chapter in our cadets’ journey—an opportunity for growth, adventure, and lasting friendships, made possible by the selflessness of our dedicated CFAVs. Here's to the achievements of this week and the many more to come!

Next year we take annual camp to Okehampton in Devon, for another action packed week.

"Annual camp was a blast! I can’t wait to come back next year!"

"Learning new skills and making friends—what more could I ask for?"

"From shooting to teamwork, camp taught me so much in just one week!"

"I pushed my limits and discovered what I’m really capable of!"

"The best part of camp? The friendships we built along the way!"

"Camp was tough, but the fun we had made it all worth it!"

"I gained confidence and leadership skills that will last a lifetime!"

ANNUAL CAMP 2024 AT STRENSALL WAS AN UNFORGETTABLE CHAPTER IN OUR CADETS’ JOURNEY 08

My son recently returned from Annual Camp at Strensall and I wanted to write to say thank you to you and all your team.

I can not imagine how much work must have gone in to planning the week for all those cadets, but it was amazing. The organisation, the range of activities, the care for the cades and their well being was just outstanding. Our son came back exhausted but so proud of all he had achieved, he clearly absolutely loved every minute of it. In addition to the field craft and various activities which he enjoyed he said one of the highlights had been making friends, he knew only one other person in his dorm, but by the end knew everybody and is in contact with them still.

We asked if he was still keen to go in to the army after the experience and he said absolutely yes - he was more committed and determined than ever!

What an amazing experience you gave them. Thank you to everybody involved.

Feedback from a proud parent 09

ANNUAL CAMP 2025 16 August - 23 August 2025

OKEHAMPTON CAMP

MORE DETAILS COMING SOON

FIRST CLASS:

Shooting Champions A fantastic weekend of shooting for our cadets! We couldn’t be prouder of their outstanding performances at CADSAM 24, where they brought home a stunning array of medals and trophies, showcasing their dedication, teamwork, and skills honed through months of training.

Our cadets lifted the trophy for Army Cadet Force Champion Team, taking the top honours with pride! Not only that, but ‘A Team’ also secured an impressive 2nd place overall, each member proudly walking away with four silver medals.

A special shoutout to Cadet Corporal Jansen, who dominated the Individual Rifle events.

Cadet Cpl Jansen’s remarkable performance earned them the prestigious titles of: Individual Rifle (Over 16) Champion Individual Rifle Champion CADSAM 24

In a testament to their skill and commitment, each cadet walked away with at least two medals, with many proudly taking home five or more. This exceptional weekend of accomplishments stands as a testament to the hard work, focus, and team spirit that define our cadets.

Cadet Cpl Jansen receiving his trophy

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WHAT THE ACF MEANS TO CADETS CADET RSM MEGAN BRUTON IS MOST SENIOR CADET IN THE ROYAL COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE ARMY CADET FORCE

I joined the Berkshire Army cadet Force in early 2022, and the experience I've gained since then have created memories that will last a lifetime. Throughout my time in ACF, I've had the opportunity to participate in numerous courses across the country that I likely wouldn't have experienced otherwise.

A memorable moment is my first weekend that I went on as a cadet, a Saturday and Sunday in the field. While fully covered in camcream and shivering in the cold, something clicked, a thrill that I had never experienced before. I loved camping as a kid but nothing compared to holding the cadet GP rifle and firing blanks in the dark on a summer night. I watched anxiously from afar what everyone was doing and a specific senior cadet led me to our harbour area. It was then that I realised that this was what I wanted to do.

I am now in the position to guide cadets and promote the benefits of pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. Cadets was my outlet to truly be myself, and as years have gone on it has stayed a big part of my life Alongside my cadets, I can confidently say that the personal development that we have undergone-both physical and mentally- has shaped us into better people. The ACF has been a solid foundation for me; it's a constant source of support where I know I can always find someone to turn to for help. The profound sense of belonging I've found within the cadet will accompany me throughout my career and daily life.

And to anyone that asks, I am proud to say I am an Army Cadet with Berkshire.

RSM Bruton

“THROUGHOUT MY TIME IN ACF, I'VE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN NUMEROUS COURSES ACROSS THE COUNTRY THAT I LIKELY WOULDN'T HAVE EXPERIENCED OTHERWISE”

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SETTING THE STANDARD:

A year of attainment 2024 has seen an excellent year of attainment from both the cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers.

The Army Cadet Force (ACF) syllabus is the backbone of cadet training, offering a structured, progressive programme that equips cadets with both military and life skills. Covering essential topics like fieldcraft, navigation, first aid, leadership, and physical training, the syllabus ensures that each cadet gains practical abilities and knowledge they can carry forward in their personal and professional lives.

Attainment within the ACF is more than passing tests; it’s about building confidence, resilience, and discipline. Each level of achievement represents a cadet’s commitment and growth, empowering them to take on greater responsibilities and develop as capable leaders.

For the ACF, the syllabus is a roadmap that aligns with its mission to inspire and prepare young people, helping them reach their full potential and make a positive impact on the world around them.

Cadets achieve their star passes through consistent attendance at their detachment parade nights, demonstrating their dedication and commitment to the unit.

These regular sessions provide essential training and learning opportunities, allowing cadets to develop the skills and knowledge required to progress through the syllabus.

By engaging with their instructors and participating actively in parade nights, cadets not only reinforce their understanding of key concepts but also cultivate a sense of friendship within their detachment. This commitment to regular attendance is crucial, as it lays the foundation for their success and advancement in the Army Cadet Force.

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337 Army Cadet Syllabus Star Passes Awarded

2024 has seen a phenomenal amount of ACS star passes.

The most impressive of these is the attainment of the senior cadets. This year we have seen 33 cadets achieve their 4 star passes - an outstanding achievement.

Even more impressive are the 8 Master Cadets. Master Cadet is the highest star pass a cadet can achieve. Cadets who are appointed as Master Cadets attend at week at the Cadet Training Center, Frimley Park, where they are put to the test.

County Star Passes for 2024 ACS Basic

136

ACS 1 Star

67

ACS 2 Star

63

ACS 3 Star

30

ACS 4 Star

33

ACS Master Cadet

8

Total

337

RAISE THE BAR:

A year of volunteering The ACF works on good will from the volunteers to who give up time to open and run detachment training and weekend activity

2,880 voluntary hours opening detachments in 2024

The commitment of our Cadet Force Adult Volunteers to delivering high-quality training is truly remarkable. Across our 18 detachments, which parade twice a week for two hours each evening, a staggering 2,880 hours are dedicated annually to ensuring cadets receive structured, engaging, and progressive training.

This level of dedication, spanning around 40 weeks each year, highlights the passion and hard work of our CFAVs, who make an invaluable contribution to the success of the Royal County of Berkshire ACF. In addition to their commitment during the week, our Cadet Force Adult Volunteers have collectively dedicated an impressive 1,310 days over the past year to deliver weekend activities. These weekend events provide invaluable opportunities for cadets to further develop their skills, engage in syllabus training, and build lasting friendships.

Detachment Volunteering 2,880 Hours or 120 Days

Total Volunteering of CFAVS 31,440 Hours collectively or 1,310 Days collectively

The dedication shown by our CFAVs, giving up their personal time to support and inspire young people, is a testament to their passion and unwavering commitment to the success of the Royal County of Berkshire ACF. Berkshire Army Cadet Force have been actively recruiting for new volunteers to join the team. Over the past 12 months we have seen 22 new CFAVs join the County and there are a further 14 who have joined and are waiting to attend their Familiarisation. That’s an overall increase of 36 new members of the team (fingers crossed that the new 14 join us). An impressive amount of new people are joining the organisation, all with the common goal of working with the young people from across the County.

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ON THE FACE OF IT:

The County CFAVs - 134

Cadets - 629

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STREADY GROWTH:

Strength in Numbers The county has shown positive growth over the past few years. 2024 has seen the county at it’s strongest.

POSITIVE GROWTH No. of Cadets 600

500

400

300

200

100

0

2021

2022

2023

2024

Skill at Arms Instructor 8

SKILLS FOR THE WORKFORCE

Leadership & Management 6

Key training courses that CFAVs undertake to ensure that the county is able to deliver the cadet experience.

Obstacle Course 1 Range Management 4 First Aid 39

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County Overview Home to over 600 Cadets and 120 Cadet Force Adult Volunteers The Royal County of Berkshire ACF stands tall in the community.

West Berkshire 13Pl Burghfield 14Pl Newbury 15Pl Theale 16Pl Thatcham 17Pl Whitley

OUR VISION A challenging and stimulating contemporary cadet experience that develops and inspires Young People within a safe environment.

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Central Berkshire 6Pl Woodley 7Pl Bracknell 8Pl Reading 9Pl Caversham 10Pl Wokingham 11Pl Arborfield The Band

East Berkshire 1Pl Windsor 2Pl Cippenham 3Pl Slough 4Pl Ascot 5Pl Maidenhead 18Tp Windsor

OUR MISSION To deliver structured and progressive training and skills for life with excitement, vigor and energy.

BUILDING A LEGACY:

CADET FORCE ADULT VOLUNTEERS - THE BACKBONE OF THE ARMY CADET FORCE Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) are the heart of the cadet community, dedicating their time, energy, and skills to support young people and help shape the future. Beyond leading training exercises and mentoring cadets, these volunteers are role models who inspire resilience, discipline, and confidence in every cadet they work with. Their influence stretches beyond campgrounds and training fields—CFAVs impact families, communities, and future generations, instilling values that ripple out into everyday life. This section highlights the hardwork and dedication of the Cadet Force Adult Volunteers.

We take a look at some of the excellent achievements of the CFAVs from across the Royal County of Berkshire.

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Lord Lieutenant Awards In a prestigious ceremony held at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on Tuesday, 15th October, two exceptional cadet force adult volunteers were recognised for their dedicated service. Sergeant Major Instructor (SMI) Blake and Staff Sergeant Instructor (SSI) Kelsall were awarded the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire’s Meritorious Service Award, a highly respected accolade that acknowledges outstanding contributions to the Army Cadet Force.

The event, hosted in the historic setting of Sandhurst, saw the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire personally present the awards, marking a moment of pride not only for the recipients but also for the wider cadet community. SMI Blake and SSI Kelsall have been commended for their unwavering commitment, leadership, and tireless efforts in supporting and mentoring cadets, going above and beyond in their roles.

SMI Charlie Blake

Their dedication has had a lasting impact on both cadets and fellow volunteers, fostering an environment where young people can thrive, develop new skills, and grow into future leaders. The award serves as a testament to their exceptional service and the positive influence they have made within the Berkshire Army Cadet Force.

SSI Julia Kelsall

Cadet Force Medals The Cadet Forces Medal, a symbol of exemplary service and devotion, was presented to numerous deserving CFAVs. This accolade is awarded to volunteers who have completed 12 years of meritorious service, demonstrating exceptional commitment and contribution to the development and mentorship of young cadets.

In addition to the Cadet Forces Medal, several volunteers were honoured with additional clasps signifying their extended years of service.

Congratulations to the following CFAVS SSI Bolton - Cadet Forces Medal Captain McNally - Cadet Forces Medal Captain Donal - Cadet Forces Medal Major Holmes - Cadet Forces Medal Major Coogan - Cadet Forces Medal SMI Hunter - First Clasp to the Cadet Forces Medal SMI Donal - First Clasp to the Cadet Forces Medal Major Harris - Fourth Clasp to the Cadet Forces Medal Lieutenant Colonel Brown - Fifth Clasp to the Cadet Forces Medal

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The Order of St John Awarded to Captain Samantha McEndoo The Office of the King was pleased to announce the award of the order of St John to Captain Samantha McEndoo for her outstanding delivery of First Aid within the Royal County of Berkshire Army Cadet Force and Cadet First Aid Officer within Headquarters South East.

Sam has been active in First Aid since she joined the organisation as a volunteer twelve years ago. She has excelled in all roles, ensuring that the Royal County of Berkshire remains fully staffed with adult first aid qualifications and that the delivery of St John Ambulance Youth First Aid to cadets is fully supported.

Sam has held the County First Aid adviser post, which primarily focuses on delivering Youth First Aid qualifications as part of the Army Cadets and St John Ambulance partnership. As well as being a county representative delivering the youth provision, Sam qualified as an adult First Aid instructor in 2013, delivering the St John Ambulance Adult Community-based suite of qualifications.

Sam has continued to support the volunteers delivering regulated First Aid qualifications. She offers up to twelve courses each year at all levels and manages the first-aid trainers, ensuring that all remain current and competent to deliver first-aid training.

During the pandemic, when many staff became out of date, as soon as restrictions lifted, she arranged courses to requalify over 75% of adult instructors so they could return to training.

Sam’s County First Aid Training Officer role ensures that St John Ambulance youth qualifications are being delivered at the county level. She trained the county cadet teams, entering regional and national competitions. She consistently achieved first place at all regional competitions and second place nationally.

Capt Sam McEndoo with her award

Sam is dual-rolled as the Regional First Aid adviser covering the South East of England. This role includes being part of the quality assurance team for youth training provision and delivering training to adult volunteers to enable them to deliver the Youth First Aid package. Sam also runs the Regional First Aid competitions.

The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, commonly known as the Order of St John, and also known as St John International, is an order of chivalry constituted in 1888 by royal charter from Queen Victoria and dedicated to St John the Baptist.

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THE CALLING:

THE HARDEST BUT MOST REWARDING ROLE Volunteering in the Army Cadet Force is a uniquely rewarding experience. As a Detachment Commander in Berkshire ACF, my role goes beyond managing cadets. It involves guiding young people to develop life skills, build resilience, and grow into confident, capable individuals. Here’s what it’s like to work with the Army Cadets and why it’s so fulfilling.

A Sense of Purpose and Pride Each session with the cadets brings a sense of pride. Watching young people arrive, sometimes with little confidence or self-belief, and grow into leaders, is incredibly satisfying. As a Detachment Commander, I’m there to guide, support, and encourage them as they take on challenges and learn new skills. From navigation to fieldcraft and first aid, cadets are gaining knowledge and experiences that will serve them for life.

Building Strong Bonds One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role is building relationships with the cadets and fellow adult volunteers. There’s a strong sense of friendship among the team, which fosters a collaborative environment where everyone’s strengths shine through. We work together, often outside of standard training hours, to make each activity successful and to ensure each cadet benefits from the programme. This friendship enhances each experience, making even the most challenging days rewarding.

Teaching Resilience and Leadership As a Detachment Commander, I’m responsible for training cadets in skills that stretch beyond the physical aspects of military life. Many of our activities focus on developing mental resilience, problem-solving, and teamwork. It’s incredibly rewarding to see cadets apply these skills in real time, learning to trust their own judgement and support each other under pressure.

The Challenges and Rewards of Volunteering Managing a unit can be demanding. There’s the administrative side of things—planning activities, ensuring safety, organising events, and coordinating with parents. It can take months of preparation to put together a weekend exercise or an annual camp. However, when you see the cadets engaged, pushing their boundaries, and achieving their goals, it all feels worthwhile. Each challenge is an opportunity to grow as a leader myself, and I take away as much as the cadets do from every experience.

Why I Volunteer Volunteering with the ACF is about giving back to the community, but it’s also about personal fulfilment. I get to be a part of something bigger—an organisation dedicated to shaping the next generation. Watching cadets thrive and knowing that I’ve had a hand in their development is a reward in itself.

THE DETACHMENT COMMANDERS: 2Lt ATKINSON SSI MANSFIELD SI CHAMBERLAIN SSI SMITH SSI SMITH SI BOWLER 2Lt SMITH SSI O'CONNOR SSI O'FARRELL SSI REILLY SSI POLIQUIN SI SIMMONS SI BOWKER SSI JOHNSON SSI MCINTYRE SSI TUCKER SMI DONAL SSI YOUNG

For anyone considering volunteering, I’d say go for it. The commitment is balanced by a profound sense of purpose, friendship, and the joy of helping others achieve things they never thought possible. Joining the ACF as a volunteer isn’t just about military training; it’s about guiding, supporting, and inspiring young people to become the best versions of themselves.

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THE SOUND OF SUCCESS:

How Music in the Army Cadets Enriches Young Lives For young people in the Army Cadet Force (ACF), developing skills goes beyond drill and fieldcraft. In Berkshire ACF, cadets are offered a unique opportunity to experience the world of music, which not only enriches their cadet journey but also equips them with invaluable life skills. This vibrant music program, including an independent syllabus, enables cadets to play concerts, take part in parades, and has even led to a performance at the historic Windsor Castle.

For many cadets, music becomes a channel for selfexpression and growth. Berkshire ACF offers a dedicated music syllabus that cadets pursue alongside the traditional Army Cadet syllabus. This dual learning approach allows young people to develop musical talents while instilling the confidence, discipline, and resilience needed to master a new skill. This structure fosters qualities that extend well beyond their time with ACF. The music syllabus covers everything from basic theory to complex pieces, offering each cadet a pathway for continuous improvement. Whether they are picking up an instrument for the first time or refining existing skills, cadets benefit from a structured program that nurtures progression and excellence. This is more than just music lessons; it is an immersive experience in teamwork, patience, and self-discipline, all core values in both music and military life.

Cadets in the Berkshire ACF band are given ample opportunities to showcase their talent. They perform at local concerts, participate in prestigious parades, and often play before appreciative audiences. For many, the pinnacle of these performances was playing at Windsor Castle —an experience that not only highlighted their dedication but also created lifelong memories. Such occasions instill pride in their craft and bring a sense of achievement to both the cadets and their families.

This carefully designed music program is more than an extracurricular activity. It is a powerful supplement to the Army Cadet syllabus that enables young people to become well-rounded individuals. Learning and performing music teaches cadets focus, patience, and teamwork, helping them to build valuable social connections and find a sense of belonging within the band. Cadets often forge friendships through this shared love of music, finding a support system that mirrors the camaraderie of a traditional army unit.

Incorporating music into the Army Cadet syllabus offers young people an invaluable outlet for creativity and growth. It inspires them to aim high, work hard, and take pride in their achievements. For cadets in Berkshire ACF, the skills learned through music are as essential as any drill or field exercise, helping to shape confident, capable, and resilient individuals ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

Through the Berkshire ACF band, the beat goes on, uplifting young lives and transforming their time in the cadets into a life-changing experience.

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Did you know that The Royal County of Berkshire ACF delivered music training?

YEAR IN REVIEW:

Berkshire ACF With over a hundred different activities delivered over the past 12 months we take a look at some of the highlights.

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Adventurous Training In May, 80 cadets from Berkshire Army Cadet Force embarked on an unforgettable adventure training experience, pushing their limits and building resilience through a series of exhilarating outdoor activities. Over the course of the week, cadets tackled water sports, braved high ropes, conquered gorge walking, navigated mountain biking trails, and hiked through challenging terrains.

Each activity offered cadets a unique way to grow in confidence, strengthen teamwork skills, and experience the rewards of stepping outside their comfort zones. From paddling through open waters to scaling heights on the ropes course, cadets learned to support each other and celebrate each accomplishment together.

Adventure training is a vital part of the ACF experience, providing young people with opportunities to develop resilience and leadership while enjoying the natural world. For these cadets, May’s training was not only about physical challenges but also about gaining skills they can apply in all aspects of life, leaving them with memories and friendships that will last long beyond their cadet years.

DofE Expeditions During October half-term, cadets from Berkshire Army Cadet Force took on the challenge of their Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) expeditions, showcasing their resilience and determination in the great outdoors. Over the course of the expedition, cadets navigated through the Berkshire country side, practicing their camping and survival skills while embracing the spirit of adventure.

Working in groups, cadets planned their routes, set up camp, and prepared their meals, all while learning valuable skills such as navigation, teamwork, and problem-solving. The experience pushed them out of their comfort zones, encouraging personal growth and fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants.

The Silver DofE expedition not only tests physical endurance but also promotes essential life skills, making it a significant milestone in each cadet’s journey. As they navigated challenging terrains and supported one another, cadets forged lasting memories and friendships that will remain with them long after the expedition concluded.

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Bracknell Host a Minister The Royal County of Berkshire Army Cadet Force was thrilled to host Alistair Carns OBE MC MP, Minister for Veterans and People, alongside Peter Swallow MP and Councillor Georgia Pickering, our Armed Forces Champion at the Bracknell detachment.

Throughout the visit, the Minister engaged in enthusiastic conversations with the cadets, aged 12 to 18, who eagerly shared their personal experiences within the cadet program. Cadets spoke about the impact the ACF has had on their lives, from building leadership and teamwork skills to fostering selfdiscipline and confidence.

Many discussed how their experiences have inspired them to consider future careers in the military or other public service roles.

Newbury Show At this year’s Newbury Show, Berkshire Army Cadet Force proudly supported HQ South East (HQSE) in engaging with the local community through an interactive and informative display in the military village. Cadets and volunteers set up an ACF stand alongside other military exhibitors, sparking conversations with show-goers of all ages and sharing what it means to be part of the Army Cadets.

Throughout the event they cadets showcased their uniforms, and shared stories from their training experiences.

First Aid Competition Winners The County competed in the the South East HQ Regional First aid Competition at Longmoor. The cadets each took part in an individual scenario and then a team test demonstrating their first aid skills they have been practicing. They did extremely well achieving 1st and subsequently went on to place second nationally representing HQSE and Berkshire ACF .

The following cadets took part: LCpl Cluzel- 10 Platoon Wokingham Sgt Major Bruton- 7 Platoon Bracknell LCpl Tabet- 11 Platoon Arborfield LCpl Colvile- 11 Platoon Arborfield

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Jordan Wiley MBE visits Jordan Wylie MBE visited A Company at their training weekend at Bramley Cadet Training Centre, bringing his enthusiasm and experience to inspire the cadets.

Known for his adventures and dedication to youth development, Jordan spent time engaging with each cadet, sharing stories and insights from his own life that captivated and motivated them. His visit left a memorable impact, encouraging the cadets to push their boundaries and pursue their goals with determination and resilience.

New Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet Cadet Staff Sergeant Opuku-Anokye is being appointed as the Lord Lieutenant's Cadet for Berkshire at the prestigious Lord Lieutenant's Awards ceremony, held at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on Tuesday, 15th October!

This is an incredible honour and reflects Cadet Staff Sergeant Opuku-Anokye’s outstanding leadership, dedication, and contribution to the Army Cadet Force.

As the Lord Lieutenant's Cadet, he will take on a highly respected role, assisting the Lord Lieutenant at official events across Berkshire, and serving as a true ambassador for young people in our community.

Being appointed at such a prestigious ceremony makes this achievement even more remarkable.

Professional Support Staff Fundraise On the 20th March the Royal County of Berkshire Army Cadet Force Professional Support Staff took on March in March, this is a 10 mile march to raise vital funds for life-changing mental health treatment for veterans.

The 7 staff taking on this challenge are all employees of South East Reserve Forces and Cadet Association, 5 of whom are veterans themselves including a former Royal Gurkha Rifles Officer who was wounded whilst on Operations in Afghanistan, with them having a total of over 124 years Regular Combined Service

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RSM Mia Lambert On Friday 14 June 2024 Cadet RSM Mia Lambert received the Army Cadet Charitable Trust UK (ACCT UK) award for Excellence in music. The aware ceremony was held in Carpenters Hall, London. The guest of honour, Mr Jordan Wylie presented RSM Lambert with her award. Following the ceremony there was the opportunity to speak to a number of other VIP guests including Major General Duncan Capps, Brigadier Gary McDade and WO2 Johnson Beharry VC. RSM Lambert has been an exceptional role model in both music and wider cadet activities. Proficient in the flute, saxophone, piano and guitar it is no wonder that RSM Lambert went on to lead the Royal County of Berkshire ACF Band. RSM Lambert was the senior cadet who led the musical accompaniment to the Royal household pantomime at Windsor Castle in December 2023.

An excellent role model for younger cadets, RSM Lambert has dedicated many hours to the army cadets and as this chapter in her life closes we wish RSM Lambert all the very best with her studies in music at Glasgow University.

Sport Success 9 cadets from the Royal County of Berkshire ACF represented were part of the South East Athletics Team at the National Athletic Competition in Liverpool! Our cadets shined brightly, contributing to our region's overall victory.

All four of our teams placed within the top 3: Senior Boys - First Senior Girls - Third Junior Boys - First Junior Girls - First

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We are Master Cadets

SSgt Opuku-Anokye , Sgt Fitzgibbon, SSgt Spicer and Sgt Maj Cornell at Cadet Training Centre, Frimley Park.

The Master Cadet Course is the pinnacle of cadet training, representing the highest star level a cadet can achieve. It demands outstanding levels of commitment, leadership, and personal development, and this year’s participants truly embodied these qualities. Over the course of their training, these four cadets demonstrated incredible resilience, dedication, and leadership skills that set them apart as shining examples for their peers.

The course itself is a rigorous and challenging experience, designed to test every aspect of a cadet’s abilities. With a strong focus on leadership and fieldcraft, it pushes cadets to develop both their practical skills and their mental toughness.

From conducting demanding field exercises to taking on leadership roles in challenging scenarios, the Master Cadet Course is not for the faint-hearted. But Sgt Maj Cornell, SSgt Spicer, Sgt Fitzgibbon, and SSgt Opokuanoky rose to every challenge, showcasing the dedication and perseverance needed to achieve this prestigious recognition.

We could not be prouder of these cadets and the example they set for others in the Berkshire ACF. Their achievements reflect not only their hard work but also the high standards and strong sense of camaraderie that define the ACF. They have truly set the bar high for future cadets, and their success will no doubt inspire many others to aim for excellence.

Please join us in congratulating all 8 cadets who have been appointed as Master Cadets this year; Sgt Maj Cornell, SSgt Spicer, Sgt Fitzgibbon, and SSgt Opokuanoky, Cadet RSM Bruton, Cadet RSM Lambert, SSgt Lloyd and SSgt Fatov for their outstanding achievements on the Master Cadet Course. Their success is a testament to their dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth.

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All the activity at a glance In addition to our regular parade nights, the Royal County of Berkshire ACF has delivered an impressive variety of activities throughout the year. These have included 58 additional training events, 30 shooting activities, and 16 sessions focused on adult training. We’ve also supported the local community with 26 events, contributed to music with 9 performances, and engaged in 5 social events. Adventurous training and expeditions have seen cadets challenging themselves in 3 sessions each, and we've also held 3 conferences, sporting activities, and APC training days.

Our annual camp, a highlight of the year, brought everyone together for a week of immersive learning and adventure. This wide range of activities ensures that our cadets and volunteers are continuously developing new skills and creating memorable experiences outside of the usual parade nights.

Band Performance Expedition Music Local Community Social Adventure Training Annual Camp APC Training Shooting Training Adult Training Conference Other Sport 0

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16 August - 23 August 2025

The Royal County of Berkshire Army Cadet Force Home to over 600 cadets and 130 adult volunteers in 18 detachments

Contact us: Royal County of Berkshire Army Cadet Force Brock Barracks Oxford Road Reading RG30 1HW

Email us: se-ber-cao2@rfca.mod.uk Phone us: 01189 023540

Produced by The Royal County of Berkshire ACF 2024