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Frequently Asked Questions
| What
do Cadets do on parade evenings? |
| This varies from Squadron
to Squadron. All Cadets undergo training in a variety of technical
subjects and can sit examinations in these subjects which in some instances
increases the other activities on offer to them. Most Squadrons also have
sports nights, visits to other units and training in the field together with
project training - such as vehicle maintenance or model making. Every Squadron
also has the opportunity of providing marksmanship training at designated
firing ranges. Many of the Squadrons attend Climbing Wall training and Canoeing.
|
| Do
I have to join the RAF? |
| No. The Air Training Corps
is not primarily a recruiting organisation for the RAF, but, if you do want
to join then the training given to you as a Cadet will be of benefit to you
should you wish to - the choice is yours.
|
| Do
I have to wear a Uniform? |
| Yes, all Cadets have to wear
a uniform. This is a military based organisation which prides itself on the
smart and impressive turnout of its members. The uniform is much the same
as that worn by regular members of the RAF, on which the Air Training Corps
is based.
|
| Do
I have to take part in all activities - what if I don't like
flying? |
| No one is forced to take
part in all activities. Some are required such as foot drill which is a required
method of moving a party of Cadets around an RAF Station for example. At
the end of the day, the Air Training Corps is like any other organisation
or hobby - you only get out of it what you put in - and you won't know what
you like unless you try it!
|
| What
if I don't want to attend every parade evening due to school work for
example? |
| Families school or jobs must
come first and this is encouraged at all Squadrons. However, to remain a
member you are required to devote much of your spare time to the organisation.
Most Squadrons parade on two nights a week and occasionally take part in
activities on week-ends. Should you need time off for anything, then you
can arrange this with your Squadron Commander.
|
| How
much does all this cost? |
| Very little. A subscription
is charged to every Cadet and the amount varies at each Squadron. At the
moment the subscription ranges from as little as 50p per parade night to
£1 per parade night dependent on the range of extra activities on offer
at the Squadron you join. Additionally, there are small charges to cover
the extra activities and a charge for attending a week at Annual Camp on
an RAF Station or perhaps at an Adventure Training Centre. Camp charges will
vary from year to year but are currently in the region of £35 per week
plus you will need your own spending money.
|
| Will
I have to buy my uniform? |
| No, this is provided free
from service sources but you are responsible for its maintenance and upkeep.
It will be replaced free of charge as you out grow it. Any specialist Adventure
Training or sports equipment will however have to be purchased, sometimes
it is provided from Squadron funds.
|
| What
happens when I am too old to remain a Cadet? |
| You can remain a Cadet up until you are 20 years old or 22 if you attain the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer. After this time you may be offered the opportunity of becoming an adult member of staff, as a Civilian Instructor or for uniformed service as an Adult Warrant Officer or Commissioned Officer.Most of the adult personnel currently serving are ex-Cadets. |