• Basic Training 

Every cadet has to undergo their basic training when they join the unit. This takes the form of a workbook which has a questions to answer on the following subjects:

- The ATC and RAF

- Drill and ceremonial

- History of Flight

- Principles of Airmanship (the features of an airfield and about the aircraft that we use)

- Map Reading

- Initial Expedition Training 

- Radio Communications

Some of these subjects are taught in a classroom, others are practical subjects and training will be given outside  or on a training weekend in the field.

During this training, new cadets will also be involved in other parade night activities with the rest of the Squadron such as sports, fieldcraft, leadership training…and all sorts of other things. They will be able to take part in some off-squadron activities, but some events will need the cadet to be officially enrolled (so with us for a bit longer). If in doubt, you can always ask if you can attend!

For your first few months you will attend in your normal clothes (we call them ‘Civvies’) but we will then put you into uniform. You will be given a dark blue (‘Working’ Blue) shirt, light blue (‘Wedgewood’ Blue) shirt and a skirt or a pair of trousers, plus a jumper, a beret and a brassard for your arm. The brassard is where you sew your Squadron identification badge and you can add qualification badges as you achieve them. You will be given some training on how to iron (you, not your parents!) your uniform and where to put badges. You will need to get a pair of shoes to wear with your uniform; at the beginning you can wear any black shoes, but you will need to acquire a pair of proper parade shoes. Talk with the other cadets if you need to find out more information.

After you have your uniform you will be enrolled into the Squadron. And finally you’ll be a fully fledged ATC Cadet...well done!