In the modern era, technology has become an integral part of various organizations and institutions, including the cadet forces.
The Ministry of Defence in the UK has recognized the importance of providing cadets with a convenient and efficient way to access information and manage their activities.
To fulfill this need, the Cadet Portal has been developed as an official and approved web-based platform. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how cadets can access the Cadet Portal, the benefits it offers, and other relevant information about the cadet forces in the UK.
What is the Cadet Portal?
The Cadet Portal is a secure and accredited platform that allows cadets to have direct access to the information held by the organization. It is part of the Bader platform and is directly linked to the Bader Squadron Management System (SMS).
The Cadet Portal has been designed and developed by serving volunteer staff from the Volunteer Staff Development Team (VSDT), in partnership with the permanent software development staff at HQ RAF Air Cadets. Its aim is to provide cadets with an electronic point of access that maximizes their engagement while reducing the administrative burden on volunteers.
Benefits of the Cadet Portal
The Cadet Portal offers a range of benefits for cadets, their parents/guardians, and the cadet forces as a whole. Some of the key benefits include:
1. Access to Information and Events
Cadets can easily access information about the events their squadron/detached flight is running. This includes the ability to sign up for events, download event-related documents such as joining instructions and kit lists directly from the Cadet Portal. All event information is pulled directly from the SMS, ensuring that cadets have the most up-to-date information at their fingertips.
2. Personal Data Management
Cadets have the ability to update their personal data, including forename, surname, email, address, telephone numbers, and more. Any changes made by the cadet are automatically pushed back to the SMS, ensuring that the information is always accurate and up-to-date.
3. Tracking Progress and Achievements
The Cadet Portal allows cadets to track the qualifications and awards they have achieved against the progressive training syllabus. This data is pulled from the SMS and displayed in the Cadet Portal. If a qualification or award is missing on the SMS, it will not be displayed on the portal. However, once the record is added in the SMS, it will instantly appear in the Cadet Portal.
4. Absence Management
Cadets can easily submit absences for parade nights that they cannot attend. Whether it’s due to a holiday or other commitments, cadets can notify their squadron/detached flight through the Cadet Portal. This feature helps both cadets and volunteers to keep track of attendance and plan accordingly.
5. Brassard Display
Cadets can view an electronic version of their brassard, which displays their badges and indicates where to place them. Measurements for each badge are also included, ensuring that cadets maintain their uniform standards.
6. Unit Training Programmes
Unit training programmes can be uploaded via the SMS and shared with cadets through the Cadet Portal. These programmes can cover any date range, from weekly to annual programmes, providing cadets with a clear overview of their training schedule.
7. Access to Key Documents
The Cadet Portal includes embedded links to key documents such as air cadet publications and forms. These links directly connect to the correct versions on Bader SharePoint, eliminating the need for cadets to log in separately to access them.
8. Drill and Uniform Resources
Cadets can access drill and uniform information, as well as instructional videos to help them maintain their uniform and improve their drill standards. The Cadet Portal aims to provide comprehensive resources to support cadets in their personal development.
9. Welfare and Support Information
Cadets can access welfare and support information through the Cadet Portal. This section provides guidance on what to do if they encounter any problems during their time as a cadet. It ensures that cadets have the necessary resources to seek help and support when needed.
10. Streamlined Communication and Processes
The Cadet Portal helps reduce the administrative burden on volunteer and permanent staff by providing a streamlined communication platform. It facilitates easy and efficient communication between cadets, staff, and parents/guardians, reducing bottlenecks and filtering at all levels of the Chain of Command.
How to Access the Cadet Portal
To access the Cadet Portal, cadets will need to follow a few simple steps:
- Visit the official website of the respective cadet force:
- Look for the Cadet Portal section on the website and click on the provided link.
- You will be redirected to the login screen of the Cadet Portal. Enter your login credentials, which typically include your username and password.
- Once logged in, you will have access to all the features and information available through the Cadet Portal.
It is important to note that access to the Cadet Portal is restricted to authorized cadets and requires valid login credentials provided by the respective cadet force.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does being a cadet count as military service?
No, being a cadet does not count as military service. The cadet forces are voluntary youth organizations sponsored and supported by the Ministry of Defence. While they are based on the traditions, values, and standards of the Armed Forces, cadets are not part of the Armed Forces themselves.
What percentage of cadets join the army?
The percentage of cadets who go on to join the Army varies. While many cadets choose to pursue a career in the military, others may pursue different paths in their future education and careers. The cadet forces aim to provide young people with valuable life skills, regardless of whether they choose to join the Army or not.
What is Army Cadets UK?
Army Cadets UK is part of the wider cadet forces in the UK. It is one of the country’s largest voluntary youth organizations, with over 37,000 cadets aged 12 to 18 and more than 9,000 adult volunteers. Army Cadets UK offers a range of exciting, challenging, educational, and adventurous activities to help young people develop physically, mentally, and socially.
Do cadets outrank enlisted soldiers?
No, cadets do not outrank enlisted soldiers. Cadets hold a different rank structure within the cadet forces, which is separate from the official military rank structure. The rank structure within the cadet forces is designed to provide cadets with opportunities for leadership and personal development.
Do Army Cadets get saluted?
No, Army Cadets do not receive salutes in the same manner as serving military personnel. However, as cadets are part of the wider cadet forces, they are expected to follow military customs and traditions. This includes showing respect to uniformed personnel and following appropriate protocols during ceremonial events.
Conclusion
The Cadet Portal is a valuable tool that allows cadets in the UK to access important information, manage their activities, and track their progress within the cadet forces. With its user-friendly interface and secure platform, the Cadet Portal ensures that cadets have a convenient and efficient way to engage with their respective cadet force. By reducing administrative burdens and providing streamlined communication, the Cadet Portal contributes to the overall success and effectiveness of the cadet forces. So, if you’re a cadet in the UK, make sure to take advantage of the Cadet Portal and maximize your engagement in the exciting world of the cadet forces.
