The first national ACF Commandants' Conference since 2010 took place at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst over the weekend of 04/05 Feb 12. The overall tone of the conference was extremely positive, set against the national picture of contraction of public expenditure.
Introduction: The cadet movement is at a very exciting stage in its development, but with some key issues to face. The good news is that spending on the ACF (and other cadet forces) has been protected within the overall MOD expenditure reductions. New Terms & Conditions of Service (TACOS) for adults are being developed and the Defence Youth Engagement Review (DYER) will present opportunities. On the not so good news officer manning is critical and encouraging and supporting potential officers through the Cadet Forces Commissioning Board (CFCB) has to be a priority (see my last post!). That said, there is considerable interest in the cadet forces (with 500 adult joining enquiries and 2000 cadet enquiries per month). We also need to be prepared for possible expansion into schools in the County, should the green light be pressed.
On the G4 front I am sure that you are aware of the impending issue of MTP uniforms to CFAV and cadets, which is due in September 12 and the issue of Gortex waterproofs (hopefully in time for camp), a new 45litre rucksack and the cadet training vest. We have already recieved the new air rifle and there will be a replacement for the No 8 rifle in the form of a small bore target rifle.
In terms of how we go about doing our business we should be always be open to joint opportunities with other cadet forces, whether that be sharing of resources, training or facilities. I am aware that this is already happening in the County and should be encouraged and supported. New cadet buildings will almost entirely be joint (consider St Mary's Bay and Faversham as prime examples).
Once the full minutes of the conference are produced I will ensure they are made available throught he CoC.
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