Youth Cadet Forces in Stafford, Staffordshire

Stafford is home to a diverse selection of youth cadet forces offering young people opportunities to develop leadership skills, participate in outdoor adventure, and earn recognized vocational qualifications. These organizations span the UK Armed Forces community branches—including the Royal Navy, Army, and Royal Air Force—as well as the emergency services. This guide outlines the key cadet units currently active and training within the Stafford area.

Stafford Sea Cadets (TS Jervis)

Stafford Sea Cadets operates as Unit 315 of the national Sea Cadet Corps and is based at Riverway in Stafford. Catering to young people aged 10 to 18 (including Junior Cadets aged 10–12 and Sea Cadets aged 12–18), the unit focuses heavily on nautical traditions and waterborne activities. Cadets regularly participate in sailing, rowing, kayaking, powerboating, and marine engineering, alongside standard cadet syllabus subjects such as drill, navigation, and first aid.

Army Cadet Force (ACF) – Stafford Detachment

The Stafford Detachment belongs to the Staffordshire and West Midlands (North Sector) Army Cadet Force. Open to youths aged 12 (in Year 8) up to 18, this unit is typically based at the Army Reserve Centre on South Walls in Stafford town centre. The training syllabus covers fieldcraft, skill-at-arms, shooting, navigation, military drill, expeditional trekking, and community projects. Cadets can also participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and earn BTEC qualifications in public services.

395 (Stafford) Squadron – RAF Air Cadets

The Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC) is represented locally by 395 (Stafford) Squadron, part of the Staffordshire Wing. Based near Beacon Barracks on Sandon Road, the squadron trains young people aged 12 (in Year 8) to 19. The unit provides access to aviation activities including air experience flights in light aircraft and gliders, aerospace training, flight simulation, radio communications, marksmanship, and competitive sports.

Stafford Grammar School Combined Cadet Force (CCF)

For students attending Stafford Grammar School, the school maintains an active Combined Cadet Force contingent. Operating primarily with Army and RAF sections, the CCF integrates military training and leadership exercises into the school curriculum and extra-curricular framework. The contingent takes part in regular field days, weekend exercises, and annual training camps supported by the Ministry of Defence.

Staffordshire Police Cadets – Stafford Unit

Run by the Staffordshire Police and Crime Commissioner, the Stafford Cadet Unit gives young people aged 13 to 17 an insight into real-world policing. Cadets learn about crime prevention, criminal law, and community safety, whilst supporting operational police officers at public events, parades, and local crime-reduction initiatives.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Cadets

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service runs cadet units within the county, with access for youth living in the Stafford area. Geared toward teenagers aged 14 to 17, fire cadets learn basic firefighting skills, hose-running, ladder drills, first aid, and fire prevention, reinforcing team cohesion and civic responsibility.