Thousands of young people across the UK will take part in the first-ever National Cadets Week from 5 to 11 October 2026, a national celebration of the Cadet Forces.
The Cadet Forces are one of the largest youth movements in the United Kingdom. Just over 137,000 young people take part in a fun, rewarding and life-changing cadet experiences, supported by around 28,000 adult volunteers, in more than 3,000 locations across all four nations.
National Cadets Week will celebrate opportunities for young people to enjoy a variety of incredible experiences, build relationships in their community and prepare themselves for future success.
His Majesty The King has praised members of the cadet forces and the adult volunteers who lead cadet groups across the country.
The King paid tribute to the five military Cadet Forces and the National Fire Cadets, Volunteer Police Cadets and St John Ambulance Cadets.
Read the letter from His Majesty, King Charles III
Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey MP appeared at the opening of a new Joint Cadet Centre in Hastings, Sussex today (5 October).
The new space will enable the sharing of resources and skills in the town, allowing the Army Cadet Force and the Royal Air Force Air Cadets to both make use of the incredible new facilities and return to training in Hastings.
Minister for Veterans and People Calvin Bailey MP said:
“Our Cadet Forces give young people the chance to discover what they’re capable of, have fun, build friendships and develop skills that will stay with them for life.
“National Cadets Week is a chance for us to celebrate the young people who make our Cadet Forces so special, and the volunteers who give their time to help them thrive. Together, we can ensure these opportunities remain for generations to come.”
Led by the Ministry of Defence, National Cadets Week will see cadets visit schools, government departments and businesses to spread awareness of the lifelong skills gained from being a cadet.
Cadets attending the National Cadets Week Launch shared the benefits of the Combined Cadet Force:
“Being a cadet has been an amazing experience and something I have thoroughly enjoyed. It has helped me grow in confidence, develop new skills, and take part in opportunities and experiences that I would never have had otherwise. Each week brings new challenges and lessons, and I always look forward to training and spending time with my fellow cadets and amazing instructors.” Jasper O Sullivan, Cadet Sergeant - Ark Alexandra Academy CCF
“Being a cadet has given me so many incredible opportunities, from taking part in exciting events and visits to developing my leadership skills and learning things I never thought I would. The experiences I have gained have helped me grow in confidence and achieve more than I ever imagined. I am incredibly honoured to have been nominated for and receive the Lord Lieutenant’s Award this year, which has made my cadet journey even more special.” Pippa Syring, Cadet Sergeant - Ark Alexandra Academy CCF
Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton said:
“Being a cadet is about so much more than learning military skills. It’s about working as a team, stepping outside your comfort zone and having the confidence to take on new challenges.
“I’ve seen first-hand the difference that these experiences can make, and the contribution cadets and volunteers make to communities across the UK. It’s fantastic to see that dedication celebrated through National Cadets Week.”
Beyond National Cadets Week, the government is committed to growing Cadet Forces by 10% by 2030 and 30% by 2035, working with industry, local communities and the third sector to expand opportunities to young people across the UK.
A Cadets Action Plan will develop and launch a new Cadet Partnership Hub, bringing together partners to support the growth and sustainability of cadet units nationwide.
The Cadet Forces' role in preserving culture and heritage will remain a defining theme of this expansion, ensuring that the traditions and values that have shaped the movement for more than a century continue to inspire future generations.
Brigadier Anthony Lamb, Head of Youth and Cadets, Ministry of Defence said:
This week marks National Cadets Week, a chance to celebrate the extraordinary contribution of everyone involved in the MOD Sponsored Cadet Forces movement across the country.
To mark this year's National Cadets Week, we are honoured to share a special message from His Majesty The King, recognising and thanking you for your incredible commitment and service.
Please take a moment this week to reflect on the impact of your work, and to share in the recognition that you so richly deserve. We also encourage you to celebrate with your units and cadets throughout the week, and to share your own stories and highlights using #NationalCadetsWeek or #IWasACadet
Thank you, as ever, for everything you do.
Image: His Majesty, King Charles III
Photographer: SSgt Donald C TODD
UK MOD © Crown copyright 2026