Building Lifelong Skills with the Army Cadets
What is the CCF (Army) Cadet Syllabus?
The Army Cadet Syllabus strives to prepare our students for success that lasts a lifetime, whilst complimenting academic classroom learning. The following principles apply to all cadet training, ensuring that your time with the CCF(A) is maximised.
The Army Cadet Syllabus is a structured program designed to provide cadets with various skills essential for personal development. Each stage of the syllabus is progressive, starting with foundational skills at Basic Training and advancing through the Star levels. This step-by-step approach ensures cadets continually develop their abilities while unlocking exciting opportunities.
Every lesson in the syllabus is aligned with the Cadet Charter and designed to provide lifelong value. Even if a topic doesn’t seem immediately relevant, like learning a section attack, it contributes to vital skills such as teamwork, communication, leadership, and physical fitness.
The syllabus also includes elective modules, giving cadets the chance to explore what interests them most. From adventurous training to cyber skills to first aid, cadets can carve out a journey that reflects who they are and who they want to become.
The CCF Army Cadet Syllabus
Each of the 11 syllabus topics have modules that can be completed for each respective star level. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate timeline for progression through the syllabus:
- Basic Training: 6 months.
- 1-Star: A further 6 months.
- 2-Star: A further 12 months.
- 3-Star: A further 12 months.
- 4-Star: A further 6 months.
To earn each Star, cadets must complete a specific number of modules, which are recorded on our Data Management System (Westminster). This can also be monitored by cadets via the Army Cadet Portal. Once all required modules are achieved, cadets are awarded their Star badge, recognising their hard work and dedication. To learn more about how you can progress through the Army Cadets, read about our Cadet Ranks
Communication & Information Systems
Clear, confident, and effective communication is vital in any field. The CIS syllabus offers a structured, progressive pathway to build these essential skills
Community Engagement
Community engagement is key to the Army Cadet Syllabus, providing cadets with opportunities to volunteer and make a meaningful impact
Drill, Turnout & Military Knowledge
Drill, Turnout, and Military Knowledge build confident, disciplined cadets. From precision marching to uniform pride, these skills instil lifelong values and a strong sense of purpose.
Fieldcraft
Fieldcraft is a core Army Cadets subject, teaching camouflage, patrol skills, and resilience. It builds confidence, leadership, and adaptability through hands-on adventure and demanding challenges.
First Aid
First aid is a vital Army Cadet skill, taught step-by-step from basics to advanced. Learn CPR, treat injuries, and earn real qualifications. Be ready to help in emergencies and save lives.
Junior Cadet Instructors Cadre (JCIC)
The JCIC is part of 3-Star training, teaching cadets to instruct juniors in drill, nav, fieldcraft, and more. It builds teaching skills and prepares cadets for the 4-Star Senior Instructor course.
Keeping Active
Keeping Active helps cadets build fitness, confidence, and leadership through fun challenges, team sports, outdoor adventures, and personal training, promoting health, resilience, and inclusivity.
Navigation and Expeditions
Expeditions are a key part of cadet life, building confidence, resilience, and navigation skills. From UK camps to global treks, you’ll learn to plan routes, pitch tents, and explore the outdoors.
Senior Cadet Instructors Cadre (SCIC)
The SCIC is a 4-Star course that builds on JCIC, boosting leadership and teaching skills. Cadets learn to instruct up to 2-Star level in key subjects and are assessed on teaching and teamwork.
Shooting
Shooting in Army Cadets builds confidence, discipline, and skill. Cadets learn marksmanship with various rifles, earn badges, and train safely under expert supervision in a structured environment.
Weapon Handling Skills
Weapons Handling teaches safe, responsible use of rifles, from air rifles to GP rifles. Cadets build confidence, discipline, and skill through expert-led training, drills, and safety certification.