Combined Cadet Force
Could You Make a Difference?
The Matrix Academy Trust Combined Cadet Force continues to grow, providing hundreds of young people across our schools with opportunities to develop leadership, confidence, resilience and teamwork through a wide range of exciting activities.
As we continue to expand, we are looking for enthusiastic members of staff from across our schools and central team to join us as Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs).
Our Vision
To develop self-disciplined, resilient and confident young people through challenge, teamwork and leadership, preparing them for the world of work and service to others, guided by respect, integrity and aspiration.
Everything we do within the Matrix Academy Trust CCF is designed to support young people in becoming successful learners, responsible citizens and future leaders, whilst developing the skills, knowledge and behaviours that employers value.
What is the CCF?
The Combined Cadet Force is a Ministry of Defence sponsored youth organisation delivered within schools. It provides young people with experiences and opportunities that help them develop valuable life skills whilst supporting their personal development and future aspirations.
The CCF delivers training and activities in:
- Leadership
- First Aid
- STEM
- Cyber
- Space and Aerospace
- Adventure Training
- Aviation and Flying
- Fieldcraft
- Drill and Ceremonial
- Community Engagement
- Team Building
- Personal Development
The focus is not on recruiting young people into the Armed Forces, but on developing responsible, confident and capable young adults.
“I had always watched cadets from a distance and always loved watching them do drill, activities and seeing the pupils progress on addition to the school curriculum.
After joining cadets, I can really see the difference the programme makes to our pupils and how important it is to instil the core values that cadets has to offer such as respect, integrity, resilience & leadership skills. As a volunteer, you can really make a difference with facilitating this and providing our pupils with an unbelievable amount of opportunities.”
Sgt F Watson
Barr Beacon School
Why Become an Cadet Force Adult Volunteer?
Volunteering with the CCF offers a unique opportunity to work with young people in a different environment and contribute to their development beyond the classroom.
Many staff find that their involvement in the CCF enhances their own professional skills, including:
Leadership and management
Team building
Communication, confidence and presentation skills
Event planning and organisation
Coaching and mentoring
Risk management
“I joined CCF as an adult volunteer because I was a cadet as a teenager, and it has had a lasting positive impact on my life. By joining as a staff member, my goal is to provide the stable structure and incredible experiences that I had, to the kids within the CCF. As a result, I have been able to go to various events for free as a staff member, gained additional training that is applicable to other areas of my life, and I now have better relationships with the pupils that I teach.”
Sgt M McEwen
Wednesfield Academy
Qualifications Available to Staff
One of the significant benefits of becoming a CFAV is access to nationally recognised training and qualifications, many of which are fully funded.
Training and qualification opportunities include:
- Leadership and Management Qualifications
- First Aid Qualifications
- Adventure Training Qualifications
- Cyber Instructor Qualifications
- STEM and Space Education Programmes
- Drill and Ceremonial Instructor Training
- Fieldcraft Instructor Qualifications
- Aviation and Aerospace Education Opportunities
- Expedition and Navigation Qualifications
Many of the skills and qualifications gained through the CCF directly support career progression within education and leadership roles.
“I joined the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) as an adult volunteer because I wanted to challenge myself, gain new experiences, and develop skills outside of my normal working environment. The role provided opportunities to learn new things, build confidence, and work alongside a wide range of people in different situations. Through my involvement in the CCF, I have gained valuable knowledge and practical skills that can be applied within the workplace, including leadership, communication, teamwork, organisation, and decision-making. I have also had the opportunity to achieve recognised qualifications and complete training courses, further supporting my personal and professional development.”
Fg Off. J Kelley
Turves Green Boys’ School
Time Commitment
We recognise that staff have busy professional and personal lives.
There is no expectation that volunteers attend every activity. Staff can contribute in a way that works around their existing commitments. Some choose to support weekly parade evenings, whilst others assist with occasional camps, visits or events throughout the year.
Who Can Join?
- Teaching staff
- Support staff
- Leadership teams
- Central Team colleagues
- SCITT trainees
- Staff from any Matrix Academy Trust school
No military experience is required. Full training and support will be provided.
Interested?
If you would like to find out more about becoming a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, please contact the CCF Team via email: cadets@matrixacademytrust.co.uk.
By volunteering with the CCF, you could help shape the next generation of leaders whilst gaining valuable skills, qualifications and experiences yourself, helping to deliver the Matrix Academy Trust CCF vision across our schools.