Analysis of information sources in references of the Wikipedia article "Sergeant major instructor" in English language version.
The ACF isn't part of the Army. Okay, there are uniforms, traditions and badges of rank, but all adults in the ACF are essentially youth workers. And don't worry, there's no danger of military call-up.
Adult instructors who hold "non-commissioned officer" army ranks. On appointment you will be a Sergeant Instructor and there exists the opportunity to rise to Regimental Sergeant Major Instructor (RSMI). Along the way you are likely to be a detachment instructor and later a detachment commander. From there you will likely take responsibility for a number of detachments as a Company Sergeant Major before rising to the rank of RSMI where you will be the senior non-commissioned rank in your county!
There are two routes of employment in the ACF; the adult leader without previous military experience would start as a probationary instructor denoted by the wearing on red shoulder boards and having attended and passed the Initial Training Course (a 7 day course normally held at Annual Camp or Preston) they would become a sergeant instructor. Promotion is available to sergeant major instructor, all of these levels are civilian based and their employment comes within a contract of employment.
