Broadening Horizons: Sussex ACF Ex Venturer Italy
5 November 2025
5 November 2025
In July 2025, a team from Sussex ACF travelled to northern Italy to join their international counterparts for the Italian Cadet Force Annual Camp… Ex Venturer Italy. Set against the backdrop of Mount Maniva near Bagolino, the week-long exchange tested skills, encouraged cultural understanding, and built lasting bonds.
Eight cadets and three instructors proudly represented Sussex. Across six days, they immersed themselves in every aspect of Italian cadet life. Activities challenged them to adapt to new equipment, unfamiliar methods, and the mountainous terrain. Some of the most important lessons came not just from training but from overcoming language barriers and connecting with their hosts.
Cadet Sgt W summed up the experience, “I valued the chance to learn new skills using unfamiliar scenarios and equipment.”
Exchanges like this enable young people to try something new and gain confidence. For Cadet Cpl H, that challenge brought personal pride…
“I felt a real sense of achievement in taking on a new challenge and stepping outside my comfort zone.”
Cadet Cpl S reflected on resilience in the face of difficulty: “I was proud of adapting to the demanding terrain and changing weather conditions.”
Others valued the smaller but meaningful details. Cadet LCpl H told us… “I enjoyed experiencing different cultures. Especially the food!” These reflections highlight how international trips spark broader personal growth, alongside adventure.
Teamwork was at the heart of the exchange. Cadet Cpl S described how proud he was to build strong connections with Italian cadets. Working through language barriers and cultural differences, cadets gained confidence and developed friendships that will stretch across borders and endure long after the camp ended.
None of this would have been possible without support from ACCT UK. Rising costs can make overseas trips a barrier for many families. By providing grant funding, ACCT UK ensured that travel was affordable, widening access for cadets from all backgrounds.
Sgt Karen Scholey, one of the adult instructors, explained: “We’ve received support from ACCT UK before and knew just how much we could achieve with their help again this year.”
Lt Rachael Hurle added: “The funding allowed us to reduce the personal costs for cadets, which made a real difference for families and ensured more young people could take part in this unforgettable experience.”
Sgt Scholey emphasised how funding ensured inclusion:
“The support from ACCT UK enabled broader participation across the county, especially for those who might not otherwise have been able to afford it.”
By the end of the week, Sussex cadets had not only trained in new conditions but had grown in resilience, adaptability, and self-belief. They returned home with new confidence, stronger teamwork and communication skills, not to mention international friendships.
This exchange is just one example of how ACCT UK funding breaks down barriers and provides opportunities. Thanks to this support, every cadet had the chance to be involved.
Ex Venturer Italy proved that with the right backing, no young person has to miss out on once-in-a-lifetime experiences.