All of our Squadrons depend on volunteers to help run and staff them. They are the people who bring the magic and help get the best from the young men and women who we train. Despite a population pool of over 100,000 adults over the three towns, we are struggling to recruit enough staff to keep these vital youth organisations open.

In mid 2024 we secured funding from the MOD to build a new Cadet Centre in Hastings and to renovate and refurbish the Cadet Centre in Bexhill, and now we need to recruit enough staff to make best use of the amazing new training facilities when they open.

For many cadets, the RAFAC offers stability and challenges they struggle to find elsewhere. Our classification and rank system provide a sense of achievement, real leadership experience, and the opportunity to learn teamwork in a safe environment while gaining valuable life skills from our staff.

While cadets enjoy the activities we offer, the real benefits become evident in the long term. For instance:

• When learning to shoot, cadets learn to follow safety protocols with dangerous equipment.
• Adventure training teaches them to operate outside familiar environments.
• Camps provide opportunities to meet new people and quickly build working relationships.
• Sports instill lessons in winning and losing with dignity.
• Leadership courses enhance their communication skills, helping them succeed and develop resilience from failure.

These skills are invaluable in both military and civilian workplaces, and they aren't typically learned elsewhere.

As a member of the staff team, you'll play a crucial role in delivering these experiences and learning outcomes. You'll lead, encourage, and watch cadets grow. You'll support them through good and bad times, celebrate their successes, and help them rebound from setbacks, ultimately giving them a head start in life.

You'll witness confused 12-year-olds developing into future leaders and 14-year-olds gaining confidence from your guidance. You'll see older cadets getting ready to go out into the world of work, You'll see them join the services or pursue higher education, make their first flights, and start their working lives with the right attitude and skill set. You may often feel exhausted, but you'll have the deep satisfaction of knowing you made a difference for these children and your community.

Staff members receive reimbursement for expenses and, depending on their role, may receive a volunteer allowance. You'll have access to specialist training to develop your skills, including leadership courses at RAF College Cranwell that can benefit your civilian career.

Outstanding long-term service may also lead to nominations for honors and awards in the military lists, and long-service medals awarded by HM The King.

As you reflect on your career, do you want to think, "I could have tried that," or "I gave it my best and made a difference in many people's lives"? That long-term satisfaction begins with an application to your local unit.

If you live in the Battle, Bexhill or Hastings area and feel like you have some time and knowledge to offer, or want to find out more, please complete the form below, and we'll get in touch with you as soon as possible.