Blog

Being a cadet is more than just training and discipline—it’s a journey of personal growth that equips young people with essential life skills. The values and lessons learned as a cadet extend far beyond the parade ground, benefiting individuals in their personal and professional lives. Here, we explore the top 10 lessons cadets learn and how they translate into everyday...

Learning the essential skills of map reading and compass use is a must for any cadet who aims to excel in outdoor activities. These skills not only build confidence but also prepare you for real-life scenarios where navigation is key. Whether you’re embarking on a training exercise or a field expedition, mastering these tools will set you apart. Here’s a...

On Wednesday, 30 October, Cadet Direct was proud to witness one of our own team members achieve a prestigious professional milestone. Our colleague Daniel attended his graduation ceremony at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst after completing a level 5 City and Guilds Professional Recognition Award in Leadership and Management. Here, we share more about Daniel’s impressive journey, the course’s structure...

Finding the perfect Christmas gift for the cadet in your life can be challenging, especially if you're looking for something both practical and meaningful. Whether it's stocking fillers or bigger presents, these unique and thoughtful items will suit any cadet's needs. Here's our top selection of 20 gifts that are sure to make this Christmas one to remember. 1. Tactical...

When it comes to outdoor training, staying dry is essential. Whether you're tackling muddy terrains, training in the rain, or dealing with unexpected downpours, the right waterproof military clothing ensures you remain comfortable and protected. At Cadet Direct, we understand how crucial reliable gear is for every cadet and military enthusiast. That’s why we’ve curated some of the best waterproof...

As a cadet, you're expected to be prepared for all kinds of situations, from simple tasks like setting up camp to more complex challenges during field exercises. Having a reliable multi-tool for cadets is an essential part of being ready for anything. These compact and versatile gadgets combine multiple functions into one tool, saving space in your kit while ensuring...

With traditional military training grounds being used to prepare Ukrainian soldiers, finding a suitable location for cadet training has become increasingly challenging. That’s where Tangier Wood comes in. We had the opportunity to visit this fantastic training facility near Crowborough, and it’s clear why it has become a go-to destination for cadet forces. Offering bespoke training packages across its 10-acre...

The decision to encourage your child to join the Cadet Forces can be life-changing. Backed by research from the University of Northampton, it's clear that participating in cadet programmes offers numerous benefits, especially for those facing economic and social challenges. In this guide, we’ll explore how becoming a cadet can positively impact your child’s education, career prospects, and overall wellbeing...

Starting your journey as a cadet can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you're joining the Army Cadet Force (ACF) or another cadet organisation, having the right gear from the get-go is crucial. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of the essential cadet kit you’ll need to succeed during training, field exercises, and beyond. From sturdy army cadet...

The following extract is from the Cadet Pocket Book 2024 Edition. Dedicated to Major John Hobbis Harris (1927-2015) Original author and creator of the Cadet's Pocket Book. INTRODUCTION The first Cadet Pocket Book, written by John Harris, was published in 1981 and was designed to help cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) get the most out of their time...