Air Training Corps
Encyclopedia
The Air Training Corps (ATC), commonly known as the Air Cadets, is a cadet organisation based in the United Kingdom
. It is a voluntary youth group which is part of the Air Cadet Organisation
and the Royal Air Force
(RAF). It is supported by the Ministry of Defence
, with a regular RAF Officer, currently Air Commodore
Barbara Cooper
, serving as Commandant Air Cadets
(Cmdt AC). The cadets and the majority of staff are civilians and, although a number of its members do go on to join the RAF or other services, the ATC is not set up as a recruiting organisation. The enrolment age for the Air Training Corps is 13 years and 3 months, however cadets can join at the age of 13 and enter as Junior cadets (see junior cadet). When the cadet reaches the age of 18, they are appointed to the position of staff (previously instructor) cadet and are subjected to the same regulations as adult members of staff (including duty of care
responsibilities). Service as a cadet ends, at the latest, on the 20th birthday of the cadet, when they become eligible to apply for service as a Civilian Instructor (CI) or an adult NCO (non commissioned officer) (See membership).
The ATC has almost 41,000 members, aged between 13 to 20 years, within 966 Squadrons
. Its cadets are supported by a network of around 10,000 volunteer staff and around 5,000 civilian committee members.
The Aims of the Air Training Corps as set out in the Royal Warrant and approved by HM the Queen
are:
The Air Training Corps motto
is "Venture Adventure".
HRH The Duke of Edinburgh
has served as honorary Air Commodore-in-Chief
since 1953.
The Air Training Corps Ensign is hoisted for every parade and hauled-down at dusk. It is treated with the same respect and dignity afforded to the Royal Air Force Ensign
.
The ATC Ensign is hoisted and hauled down by a nominated member of the Squadron, sometimes a Cadet NCO
, member of staff, or simply a Cadet who has been chosen, with the salute being taken by any commissioned officer, normally the squadron's Officer Commanding
. All other officers salute during the hoisting and hauling down.
Most Wings and Squadrons also have a banner, which is paraded on formal occasions. The ATC also has a Corps Banner, which is afforded the same courtesies as (but does not hold the status of) a RAF Squadron Standard.
is affectionately known as the father of the air cadet movement. He was the son of a major general
and joined the army
himself as a regular officer. After service attached to the Indian Army
, he joined the Royal Flying Corps
(the forerunner of the Royal Air Force) where he served as a pilot in World War I
.
He transferred to the Royal Air Force in 1918 and eventually retired from the service in 1929.
His love of aviation and his tremendous capacity for hard work was such that, following his retirement, he became the Secretary-General of the Air League
- an organisation made up of people who could see a bright future for aviation and who wanted to make the British public aware of its potential.
Against a background of rising interest in aviation and with the clouds of war beginning to form over Europe, Air Commodore Chamier thought of the idea of starting an aviation cadet corps.
He knew that in the 1914–1918 war
, in desperate moments, hand picked young men with only a few hours of training were sent to do combat in the air - only to fall victim to well trained enemy aviators. He knew also that the winning of air power would need the services of many highly skilled and highly trained men using the best equipment and that the sooner such training could be started the better.
Its purpose was to train young men in various aviation related skills. These skills were eventually destined to be used by RAF and Fleet Air Arm.
The corps was extremely popular with thousands joining up all eager to help Britain prepare for World War II
.
In 1941, in order to provide the means of giving part-time air training to young men destined for the Royal Air Force, the ADCC was formally established as the Air Training Corps by Royal Warrant. The ATC still continues today training young people in all types of life skills.
setting out the Corps' aims.
The number of young men responding to this new ATC was spectacular. Within the first month the size of the old ADCC had virtually doubled to more than 400 squadrons and after 12 months it was about 8 times as big. The new ATC badge was designed and, once approved by the King, it was published in August 1941. The motto ' Venture Adventure ', devised by Air Commodore Chamier, was adopted by the ATC and incorporated into the badge.
The new ATC squadrons adapted their training programmes to prepare young men for entry to the RAF. Squadrons arranged visits to RAF and Fleet Air Arm stations as part of the cadets' training and to let them fly as much as possible. Everybody wanted to fly but, with so few flights available, many cadets were disappointed. One solution designed to get cadets airborne was to introduce them to gliding
. This would give cadets a chance to get the feel of an aircraft in flight and allow them to handle the controls. This obviously could not happen overnight. It would be many years before this dream could be realized.
(ACO), along with the RAF sections of the Combined Cadet Force
. It is divided geographically into six regions (each commanded by an RAFR Group Captain
), each of which are sub-divided into wings
. There are currently 36 wings, most named after the one or two counties that they operate in. Wings are further sub-divided into squadrons.
Headquarters Air Cadets (HQAC), based at RAF Cranwell
, controls the organization; and there are subordinate HQs at Region and Wing levels staffed by officers of the RAF Reserve
and civil servants. A regular RAF Air Commodore
serves as Commandant Air Cadets
. The Current Commandant Air Cadets is Air Commodore
Barbara Cooper
CBE. The Chief of Staff is a retired Group Captain
in the RAF Reserves. The current Chief of Staff is Group Captain
John Lawlor.
The ACO forms one of the seven functional areas of No 22 (Training) Group Royal Air Force, which is responsible for the recruitment and selection of all RAF personnel and for the policy and delivery of RAF non-operational training (including Flying Training). No 22 Group is led by the Air Officer Commanding No 22 Group RAF
, currently Air Vice-Marshal Mark Green RAF
Two Air Cadet National Adventure Training Centres are controlled by HQAC - at Llanbedr, Gwynedd
, Wales and Windermere, Cumbria, England. These provide a range of adventure training courses and accommodation for squadron and wing expeditions. HQAC also controls 28 Volunteer Gliding Squadron
s around the UK, through the Air Cadet Central Gliding School at RAF Syerston
, and 12 Air Experience Flight
s.
, Germany
, Gibraltar
and the Channel Islands. There are 969 ATC Squadrons. The first 50 squadrons formed have their squadron numbers followed by an F to show they are "founder" squadrons e.g. No 14F (Northolt) Squadron. Only 30 are still in existence, as the other 20 have disbanded over time.
In towns not large enough to sustain a squadron of 30 cadets, or as a supplement to an existing squadron in a larger town or city, a Detached Flight (DF) may be formed. This operates much like any other unit, but is technically a component part of a nearby larger squadron. A Detached Flight has their parent squadron number followed by the letters DF to show that they are a Detached Flight e.g. No 38DF is the service shortform title for No 38 (Crieff) Detached Flight, raised by No 38F (Perth) Squadron. The establishment of Officers
, WOs, SNCOs (Non-Commissioned Officer
s) and cadet NCOs is dependent on the size of the Squadron or DF. There are approximately 48 Detached Flights currently in being.
Each squadron is usually commanded by a RAFVR(T) Officer (although this is not always possible; 213 (City of Rochester) 291 (Westminster) and 1440 (Shoreham-By-Sea) are examples of a squadron run by a Warrant Officer). The Commanding Officer (or CO) has a good deal of autonomy in running the unit but also carries heavy responsibilities. Additionally where a unit has other members of staff the CO allocates their duties and also provides recommendations on the appointment, retention and promotion of those staff.
Another member of the adult staff with much responsibility within a unit is the Squadron Warrant Officer (Sqn WO). This person will hold the rank of Warrant Officer
, or may be a SNCO if no Warrant Officer is on squadron, and will typically have spent many years working within the squadron or at least within the ATC.
In the case of no commissioned officers being present, the Sqn WO will take charge of the unit. At all other times, the Sqn WO will usually hold a closer relationship with the cadets than the CO will.
This basic structure has many permutations - varying numbers of cadets and staff, accommodation and facilities. A typical Detached Flight consists of the Officer Commanding and a minimum of fifteen cadets and is often housed in rented accommodation.
At the other extreme a large Squadron can consist of 120 plus cadets, 4 commissioned officers, two non-commissioned officers and a half dozen Civilian Instructors.
In towns not large enough to sustain a squadron of 30 cadets, or as a supplement to an existing squadron in a larger town or city, a Detached Flight may be formed. This operates much like any other unit, but is technically a component part of a nearby larger squadron. There are 39 Detached Flights currently in being. They have their squadron numbers followed by the letters "DF" to show they are a detached flight.
A full list of current ATC units can be found on the Air Cadet Organisation website (see external links).
Gordon Moulds
while he was Commandant Air Cadets, as he believed that the old Probationer system, which did not enrol cadets until they could pass their 1st Class classification, was resulting in cadets losing interest and leaving before enrolment.
All cadets are issued with uniform and must each pay a small amount in subscriptions (or 'subs' as they are commonly known), usually around £50-£100 per year (£2 a night), although this can vary widely from squadron to squadron. The subscription money covers parts of the activities undertaken by the Cadets for example Adventure Training, local camps etc. Each squadron also has to pay a fixed amount to their Wing to which it belongs for each cadet 'on its books'. This is then split between the Wing, Region and Headquarters. Activities such as small and full bore target shooting, flying and gliding are paid for by the Royal Air Force
-public money.
. Fellow cadets and staff within the ATC do not often refer to other cadet NCOs with the word 'cadet' before addressing another cadet NCO. For example a cadet would say "Yes, Corporal" rather than "Yes, Cadet Corporal". Promotion to the ranks of Corporal, Sergeant and Flight Sergeant is at the discretion of the Commanding Officer. They (or a representative) will make a decision based on merit and leadership potential - many squadrons have formal selection procedures, whilst others select by observing potential during normal training. Promotion to Cadet Warrant Officer is decided by a panel at Wing level. Prospective candidates will be a Flight Sergeant, preferably holding the Instructor Cadet classification and will be required to attend an interview with the Wing Commander or their representative. Cadets who reached the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer were formerly allowed to remain an Air Cadet until they were 22 years old, however all cadets must leave by age 20.
The NCO ranks within the ATC mirror those of the RAF's non technical/flying trades and are, in ascending order of seniority:
It is common within the ATC to abbreviate these ranks by dropping the prefix "Cadet". Cadet Warrant Officers are addressed as "Warrant Officer", "Warrant", "CWO", "Cadet Warrant" or "Cadet Warrant Officer" (Warrant Officer is the correct form of address, but curiously is rarely used), and not as "Sir/Ma'am".
Nevertheless, staff cadets have no authority over cadets below the age of 18 holding the same or more senior rank, unless the situation puts cadets at risk then the staff cadet can step in by acting as an adult rather than a cadet but only in extreme cases. This has been the source of much debate within the ATC.
These subjects are studied using tuition from the instructors, and/or self-study from Air Cadet Publications or ('ACPs'). Each successive qualification generally allows a cadet greater participation. For example, cadets must be First Class before they can take part in some activities such as UK annual camps, while Leading Cadets can participate in overseas activities. Cadets who have achieved the Master Air Cadet classification have completed their academic training and can attain a BTEC Award in Aviation Studies. Subsequent (and optional) successful completion of the Cadet Methods of Instruction Course entitles the cadet to wear a yellow lanyard over the left shoulder and take on a training role. These cadets are known as Instructor Cadets.
All junior cadets also have to pass a practical Drill Test to become first class. The drill test is a sequence of simple drill manoeuvres essential for forming squads and a good foundation to build on for more advanced drill.
Piston Engine Propulsion, Jet Engine Propulsion, Rocketery, Aircraft Handling and Flying Techniques, Air Power, Airframes, Avionics and Aircraft Electrical Systems, Military Aircraft Systems, Basic Air Navigation, Basic Principles of Pilot Navigation, Advanced Radio and Radar, Data Communications.
Master Air Cadet has its own new badge for the brassard which shows an ATC Falcon surrounded by laurel leaves.
(ATF), usually within a year of appointment, with further courses as they progress up the rank structure.
*Ex-regular WO, or (formerly) granted to other ATC WOs for long service, and may still be found as such.
of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
- the RAFVR(T). Unless an officer has previous service, he or she is commissioned as a substantive Pilot Officer, termed Officer Cadet until the Officers Initial Course at RAF Cranwell is completed. Unlike RAF Officer Cadets at the RAF College or RAFVR Officer Cadets of the University Air Squadron, RAFVR(T) Officer Cadets are, in fact, commissioned and as such are entitled to proper paid compliments. In coming years this is likely to change and the non-commissioned Officer Cadet RAFVR(T) rank will be introduced, bringing the RAFVR(T) in line with the RAF and RAFVR. Promotion to Flying Officer normally occurs after two years. Former regular commissioned officers usually start at Flying Officer, subject to certain conditions. After 9 years commissioned service, or upon becoming Officer Commanding
of a squadron and completing an Officers' Senior Course (OSC), the rank of Flight Lieutenant (acting paid) is bestowed - Squadron Commanders who have yet to complete OSC may hold the rank of Flight Lieutenant (acting unpaid). Squadrons are usually commanded by Flight Lieutenants, who are also found as Wing and Regional staff officers along with Squadron Leaders and Wing Commanders. Particularly large squadrons are sometimes commanded by Squadron Leaders (usually when the squadron has 100 or more cadets).
These are abbreviated to Sgt (ATC), FS (ATC) and WO (ATC) respectively. In conversation Adult NCO's are often still referred to using the old style ranks, such as Adult Sergeant X, and their ranks are sometimes mistakenly abbreviated according to the old system (i.e. ASgt, AFS or AWO).
Prior to the 'LaSER (London and South East Region) Review' of 2003, the adult ranks of Sergeant and Flight Sergeant did not exist, meaning that the non-commissioned rank structure of a squadron was more straight forward i.e. Cadet, Cadet Corporal, Cadet Sergeant, Cadet Flight Sergeant, Cadet Warrant Officer, Adult Warrant Officer. This has been disturbed by inserting the ranks of Sgt (ATC) and FS (ATC) and WO (ATC).
, in an effort to standardise the means by which CIs are identified.
Similarly, ATC Chaplains are usually civilian members of the local clergy (although forces chaplains may join as Service Instructors). Civilian Chaplains also do not normally wear uniform, and are generally addressed as 'Padre' by all ranks.
ATC Chaplains hold an Honorary position on the Squadron, and thus, unlike their regular military counterparts, do not hold an Officers Commission, and are thus not saluted.
and secretary
as well as the OC (an ex-officio member) and someone to take minutes
. The Civ Com is responsible for overseeing the initial unit formation and direction. The committees, consisting of respected members of the community often including parents of cadets and retired staff, also manage finances (in particular fund raising) but do not have any executive authority.
The ATC is a charitable organisation. The Royal Air Force provides funds for a few of the key activities such as flying training. These finances are known as 'public funds'. The great range of other activities offered by the ATC however are financed from 'non-public fund'. Here the Civilian Committees come into their own in their tireless efforts to seek the necessary financial assistance, by way of fund-raising, which allows these other activities to take place.
Events organised by Civilian Committees to raise money can be:
Squadrons are "charities excepted from registration". This means they enjoy all of the legal benefits of a registered charity without the burden of registration.
Trophy is awarded by the Commandant to the Squadron with the best statistics and overall impression when inspected. The Morris Trophy is Awarded from the 6 regional candidates upon inspection by the Commandant.
Additionally cadets are open to achieving trophies such as the Foster and Currall Trophies. The Foster Trophy being awarded to the cadet who has achieved the highest academic results in the entire Corps over his/her time in the ATC, after finishing the cadet syllabus that leads to achieving a Btec in Aviation.
In addition to the trophies mentioned above there are also trophies presented annually by the Royal Air Forces Association
. These trophies include the "Sir Douglas Bader Wings Appeal Trophy" for the ATC squadron collecting the most money on a per capita basis, The squadron achieving second place is awarded the “Sir Augustus Walker Trophy". the “Sir Robert Saundby Trophy” is awarded for collecting the highest net Wings Appeal amount.
facilities. The itinerary is always packed with typical ATC activities such as air experience flying, shooting, adventure training and, of course, drill. Cadets will also have the opportunity to visit various sections of the station and meet the people who work there.
, and the closure of RAF stations in Germany, the number of overseas camp opportunities has decreased. As of 2007 the destinations for overseas camps are:
or Sea Cadets
. There is also the Music camps for band members. Camps based around fieldcraft, survival and requiring the cadets to be in No. 3 Uniform (DPM) for most of the time spent on the camp, are mostly and affectionately known as 'Greens camps'.
Cadets are also issued with a light blue shirt and tie for formal occasions, and are usually either issued with or privately acquire a DPM
(camouflage) uniform. Cadets may wear other specialist uniforms, such as flight suit
s, when required.
together as Royal Air Force Air Cadets
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandIn the United Kingdom and Dependencies, other languages have been officially recognised as legitimate autochthonous languages under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages...
. It is a voluntary youth group which is part of the Air Cadet Organisation
Air Cadet Organisation
The Air Cadet Organisation is the collective name for the UK cadet forces sponsored by the Royal Air Force. The organisation is subordinate to No. 22 Group RAF, with a serving RAF officer as Commandant Air Cadets. The current Commandant is Air Commodore Barbara Cooper CBE...
and the Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force
The Royal Air Force is the aerial warfare service branch of the British Armed Forces. Formed on 1 April 1918, it is the oldest independent air force in the world...
(RAF). It is supported by the Ministry of Defence
Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)
The Ministry of Defence is the United Kingdom government department responsible for implementation of government defence policy and is the headquarters of the British Armed Forces....
, with a regular RAF Officer, currently Air Commodore
Air Commodore
Air commodore is an air-officer rank which originated in and continues to be used by the Royal Air Force...
Barbara Cooper
Barbara Cooper (RAF officer)
Air Commodore Barbara Cooper CBE is a British Royal Air Force officer and the current Commandant of the Air Cadet Organisation . She was promoted to Air Commodore in 2008 and became the RAF's highest-ranking female. She became the Assistant Chief of Staff at Air Command headquarters...
, serving as Commandant Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets is the title given to the Royal Air Force officer who is responsible for running the Air Cadet Organisation, embracing the Air Training Corps and the RAF Sections of the Combined Cadet Force...
(Cmdt AC). The cadets and the majority of staff are civilians and, although a number of its members do go on to join the RAF or other services, the ATC is not set up as a recruiting organisation. The enrolment age for the Air Training Corps is 13 years and 3 months, however cadets can join at the age of 13 and enter as Junior cadets (see junior cadet). When the cadet reaches the age of 18, they are appointed to the position of staff (previously instructor) cadet and are subjected to the same regulations as adult members of staff (including duty of care
Duty of care
In tort law, a duty of care is a legal obligation imposed on an individual requiring that they adhere to a standard of reasonable care while performing any acts that could foreseeably harm others. It is the first element that must be established to proceed with an action in negligence. The claimant...
responsibilities). Service as a cadet ends, at the latest, on the 20th birthday of the cadet, when they become eligible to apply for service as a Civilian Instructor (CI) or an adult NCO (non commissioned officer) (See membership).
The ATC has almost 41,000 members, aged between 13 to 20 years, within 966 Squadrons
Squadron (aviation)
A squadron in air force, army aviation or naval aviation is mainly a unit comprising a number of military aircraft, usually of the same type, typically with 12 to 24 aircraft, sometimes divided into three or four flights, depending on aircraft type and air force...
. Its cadets are supported by a network of around 10,000 volunteer staff and around 5,000 civilian committee members.
Aims and motto
Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom
Elizabeth II is the constitutional monarch of 16 sovereign states known as the Commonwealth realms: the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, Barbados, the Bahamas, Grenada, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Belize,...
are:
- To promote and encourage among young men and women a practical interest in aviationAviationAviation is the design, development, production, operation, and use of aircraft, especially heavier-than-air aircraft. Aviation is derived from avis, the Latin word for bird.-History:...
and the Royal Air ForceRoyal Air ForceThe Royal Air Force is the aerial warfare service branch of the British Armed Forces. Formed on 1 April 1918, it is the oldest independent air force in the world...
. - To provide training which will be useful both in the Services and in civil life.
- To foster the spirit of adventureAdventureAn adventure is defined as an exciting or unusual experience; it may also be a bold, usually risky undertaking, with an uncertain outcome. The term is often used to refer to activities with some potential for physical danger, such as skydiving, mountain climbing and or participating in extreme sports...
and To develop the qualities of leadershipLeadershipLeadership has been described as the “process of social influence in which one person can enlist the aid and support of others in the accomplishment of a common task". Other in-depth definitions of leadership have also emerged.-Theories:...
and good citizenshipCitizenshipCitizenship is the state of being a citizen of a particular social, political, national, or human resource community. Citizenship status, under social contract theory, carries with it both rights and responsibilities...
.
The Air Training Corps motto
Motto
A motto is a phrase meant to formally summarize the general motivation or intention of a social group or organization. A motto may be in any language, but Latin is the most used. The local language is usual in the mottoes of governments...
is "Venture Adventure".
HRH The Duke of Edinburgh
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh is the husband of Elizabeth II. He is the United Kingdom's longest-serving consort and the oldest serving spouse of a reigning British monarch....
has served as honorary Air Commodore-in-Chief
Air Commodore-in-Chief
Air Commodore-in-Chief is a type of honorary air force appointment which originated in the Royal Air Force and now exists in the air forces of various Commonwealth realms. Initially only the British monarch held air commodore-in-chief appointments...
since 1953.
The cadet promise
Upon enrolment into the ATC, each and every cadet has to make the following promise, usually at a ceremony presided over by the Unit Padre or Officer Commanding, and by signing the promise in their Cadet Record of Service Book (RAF Form 3822):- "I Cadet *Full Name*, hereby solemnly promise on my honour to serve my Unit loyally and to be faithful to my obligations as a member of the Air Training Corps. I further promise to be a good citizen and to do my duty to God and the Queen, my Country and my Flag."
Ensign
Royal Air Force Ensign
The Royal Air Force Ensign is the official flag which is used to represent the Royal Air Force. The Ensign has a field of air force blue with the Union Flag in the canton and the Royal Air Force roundel in the middle of the fly....
.
The ATC Ensign is hoisted and hauled down by a nominated member of the Squadron, sometimes a Cadet NCO
Non-commissioned officer
A non-commissioned officer , called a sub-officer in some countries, is a military officer who has not been given a commission...
, member of staff, or simply a Cadet who has been chosen, with the salute being taken by any commissioned officer, normally the squadron's Officer Commanding
Officer Commanding
The Officer Commanding is the commander of a sub-unit or minor unit , principally used in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth. In other countries, the term Commanding Officer is applied to commanders of minor as well as major units.Normally an Officer Commanding is a company, squadron or battery...
. All other officers salute during the hoisting and hauling down.
Most Wings and Squadrons also have a banner, which is paraded on formal occasions. The ATC also has a Corps Banner, which is afforded the same courtesies as (but does not hold the status of) a RAF Squadron Standard.
"Father of the air cadet movement"
Air Commodore Sir John ChamierJohn Adrian Chamier
Air Commodore Sir John Adrian Chamier CB, CMG, DSO, OBE also known as "The Founding Father of the ATC" for his role in the foundation of the Air Training Corps, was born in 1883.-Royal Air Force:...
is affectionately known as the father of the air cadet movement. He was the son of a major general
Major General
Major general or major-general is a military rank used in many countries. It is derived from the older rank of sergeant major general. A major general is a high-ranking officer, normally subordinate to the rank of lieutenant general and senior to the ranks of brigadier and brigadier general...
and joined the army
British Army
The British Army is the land warfare branch of Her Majesty's Armed Forces in the United Kingdom. It came into being with the unification of the Kingdom of England and Scotland into the Kingdom of Great Britain in 1707. The new British Army incorporated Regiments that had already existed in England...
himself as a regular officer. After service attached to the Indian Army
British Indian Army
The British Indian Army, officially simply the Indian Army, was the principal army of the British Raj in India before the partition of India in 1947...
, he joined the Royal Flying Corps
Royal Flying Corps
The Royal Flying Corps was the over-land air arm of the British military during most of the First World War. During the early part of the war, the RFC's responsibilities were centred on support of the British Army, via artillery co-operation and photographic reconnaissance...
(the forerunner of the Royal Air Force) where he served as a pilot in World War I
World War I
World War I , which was predominantly called the World War or the Great War from its occurrence until 1939, and the First World War or World War I thereafter, was a major war centred in Europe that began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918...
.
He transferred to the Royal Air Force in 1918 and eventually retired from the service in 1929.
His love of aviation and his tremendous capacity for hard work was such that, following his retirement, he became the Secretary-General of the Air League
Air League
For the Air League , see Australian Air LeagueThe Air League is an aviation society in the United Kingdom, founded in 1909.The aims and mission of the Air League are to promote the cause of British aviation by:...
- an organisation made up of people who could see a bright future for aviation and who wanted to make the British public aware of its potential.
Against a background of rising interest in aviation and with the clouds of war beginning to form over Europe, Air Commodore Chamier thought of the idea of starting an aviation cadet corps.
He knew that in the 1914–1918 war
World War I
World War I , which was predominantly called the World War or the Great War from its occurrence until 1939, and the First World War or World War I thereafter, was a major war centred in Europe that began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918...
, in desperate moments, hand picked young men with only a few hours of training were sent to do combat in the air - only to fall victim to well trained enemy aviators. He knew also that the winning of air power would need the services of many highly skilled and highly trained men using the best equipment and that the sooner such training could be started the better.
Air Defence Cadet Corps
The Air Defence Cadet Corps (ADCC) was set up in 1938 by Air Commodore Chamier.Its purpose was to train young men in various aviation related skills. These skills were eventually destined to be used by RAF and Fleet Air Arm.
The corps was extremely popular with thousands joining up all eager to help Britain prepare for World War II
World War II
World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...
.
In 1941, in order to provide the means of giving part-time air training to young men destined for the Royal Air Force, the ADCC was formally established as the Air Training Corps by Royal Warrant. The ATC still continues today training young people in all types of life skills.
The Air Training Corps is Established
In 1941 the government realized the true value of the work done by the ADCC and agreed to take over its control. This meant a number of changes to the corps, and in fact brought about the birth of a completely new organization, called the Air Training Corps. So on the 5 February 1941 the Air Training Corps (ATC) was officially established, with King George VI agreeing to be the Air Commodore-in-Chief, and issuing a Royal WarrantRoyal Warrant
Royal warrants of appointment have been issued for centuries to those who supply goods or services to a royal court or certain royal personages. The warrant enables the supplier to advertise the fact that they supply to the royal family, so lending prestige to the supplier...
setting out the Corps' aims.
The number of young men responding to this new ATC was spectacular. Within the first month the size of the old ADCC had virtually doubled to more than 400 squadrons and after 12 months it was about 8 times as big. The new ATC badge was designed and, once approved by the King, it was published in August 1941. The motto ' Venture Adventure ', devised by Air Commodore Chamier, was adopted by the ATC and incorporated into the badge.
The new ATC squadrons adapted their training programmes to prepare young men for entry to the RAF. Squadrons arranged visits to RAF and Fleet Air Arm stations as part of the cadets' training and to let them fly as much as possible. Everybody wanted to fly but, with so few flights available, many cadets were disappointed. One solution designed to get cadets airborne was to introduce them to gliding
Gliding
Gliding is a recreational activity and competitive air sport in which pilots fly unpowered aircraft known as gliders or sailplanes using naturally occurring currents of rising air in the atmosphere to remain airborne. The word soaring is also used for the sport.Gliding as a sport began in the 1920s...
. This would give cadets a chance to get the feel of an aircraft in flight and allow them to handle the controls. This obviously could not happen overnight. It would be many years before this dream could be realized.
Admittance of females to the Air Training Corps
Prior to the 1980s females were unable to join the ATC, although they were able to join an attached unit (if there was one at that location) of the Girls Venture Corps (GVC) which had been formed in the early years of the Second World War, the GVCAC still exists (nowadays at separate sites) although in greatly reduced numbers due to competition from the ATC.Organisation
Within the Corps there are four levels of command. From top, down, they are: Corps, Region, Wing and Squadron. The Squadrons are the focal point for the majority of members of the Corps.National level
The ATC is the largest part of the Air Cadet OrganisationAir Cadet Organisation
The Air Cadet Organisation is the collective name for the UK cadet forces sponsored by the Royal Air Force. The organisation is subordinate to No. 22 Group RAF, with a serving RAF officer as Commandant Air Cadets. The current Commandant is Air Commodore Barbara Cooper CBE...
(ACO), along with the RAF sections of the Combined Cadet Force
Combined Cadet Force
The Combined Cadet Force is a Ministry of Defence sponsored youth organisation in the United Kingdom. Its aim is to "provide a disciplined organisation in a school so that pupils may develop powers of leadership by means of training to promote the qualities of responsibility, self reliance,...
. It is divided geographically into six regions (each commanded by an RAFR Group Captain
Group Captain
Group captain is a senior commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many other Commonwealth countries. It ranks above wing commander and immediately below air commodore...
), each of which are sub-divided into wings
Wing (air force unit)
Wing is a term used by different military aviation forces for a unit of command. The terms wing, group or Staffel are used for different-sized units from one country or service to another....
. There are currently 36 wings, most named after the one or two counties that they operate in. Wings are further sub-divided into squadrons.
Headquarters Air Cadets (HQAC), based at RAF Cranwell
RAF Cranwell
RAF Cranwell is a Royal Air Force station in Lincolnshire close to the village of Cranwell, near Sleaford. It is currently commanded by Group Captain Dave Waddington...
, controls the organization; and there are subordinate HQs at Region and Wing levels staffed by officers of the RAF Reserve
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve consists of a number of groupings of individual military reservists for the management and operation of the Royal Air Force's Air Training Corps and CCF Air Cadet formations, Volunteer Gliding Squadrons , Air Experience Flights, and also to form the...
and civil servants. A regular RAF Air Commodore
Air Commodore
Air commodore is an air-officer rank which originated in and continues to be used by the Royal Air Force...
serves as Commandant Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets is the title given to the Royal Air Force officer who is responsible for running the Air Cadet Organisation, embracing the Air Training Corps and the RAF Sections of the Combined Cadet Force...
. The Current Commandant Air Cadets is Air Commodore
Air Commodore
Air commodore is an air-officer rank which originated in and continues to be used by the Royal Air Force...
Barbara Cooper
Barbara Cooper (RAF officer)
Air Commodore Barbara Cooper CBE is a British Royal Air Force officer and the current Commandant of the Air Cadet Organisation . She was promoted to Air Commodore in 2008 and became the RAF's highest-ranking female. She became the Assistant Chief of Staff at Air Command headquarters...
CBE. The Chief of Staff is a retired Group Captain
Group Captain
Group captain is a senior commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many other Commonwealth countries. It ranks above wing commander and immediately below air commodore...
in the RAF Reserves. The current Chief of Staff is Group Captain
Group Captain
Group captain is a senior commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many other Commonwealth countries. It ranks above wing commander and immediately below air commodore...
John Lawlor.
The ACO forms one of the seven functional areas of No 22 (Training) Group Royal Air Force, which is responsible for the recruitment and selection of all RAF personnel and for the policy and delivery of RAF non-operational training (including Flying Training). No 22 Group is led by the Air Officer Commanding No 22 Group RAF
Air Officer Commanding No 22 Group RAF
Air Officer Commanding No. 22 Group is the appointment held by the Royal Air Force Officer responsible for RAF personnel selection and non-operational training...
, currently Air Vice-Marshal Mark Green RAF
Two Air Cadet National Adventure Training Centres are controlled by HQAC - at Llanbedr, Gwynedd
Llanbedr
Llanbedr is a village in the Ardudwy area of Gwynedd, Wales.The village originally grew around the slate quarrying industry. Attractions in Llanbedr include Neolithic standing stones and Bronze Age hut circles. The Morfa Dyffryn sand dunes and Mochras lie nearby...
, Wales and Windermere, Cumbria, England. These provide a range of adventure training courses and accommodation for squadron and wing expeditions. HQAC also controls 28 Volunteer Gliding Squadron
Volunteer Gliding Squadron
Volunteer Gliding Squadrons are Royal Air Force Flying Training Units , operating military Viking TX.1 and Vigilant T.1 gliders to train Air Cadets from the Combined Cadet Force and the Air Training Corps....
s around the UK, through the Air Cadet Central Gliding School at RAF Syerston
RAF Syerston
RAF Syerston is a Royal Air Force station in the parish of Flintham, near Newark, Nottinghamshire. It was used as a bomber base during World War II.-Bomber Command:...
, and 12 Air Experience Flight
Air Experience Flight
An Air Experience Flight is a training unit of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve whose main purpose is to give introductory flying experience to Air Cadets or the RAF section of the Combined Cadet Force...
s.
Local level
ATC Squadrons are established in most large towns in the UK and there are also units in CyprusCyprus
Cyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
, Germany
Germany
Germany , officially the Federal Republic of Germany , is a federal parliamentary republic in Europe. The country consists of 16 states while the capital and largest city is Berlin. Germany covers an area of 357,021 km2 and has a largely temperate seasonal climate...
, Gibraltar
Gibraltar
Gibraltar is a British overseas territory located on the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula at the entrance of the Mediterranean. A peninsula with an area of , it has a northern border with Andalusia, Spain. The Rock of Gibraltar is the major landmark of the region...
and the Channel Islands. There are 969 ATC Squadrons. The first 50 squadrons formed have their squadron numbers followed by an F to show they are "founder" squadrons e.g. No 14F (Northolt) Squadron. Only 30 are still in existence, as the other 20 have disbanded over time.
In towns not large enough to sustain a squadron of 30 cadets, or as a supplement to an existing squadron in a larger town or city, a Detached Flight (DF) may be formed. This operates much like any other unit, but is technically a component part of a nearby larger squadron. A Detached Flight has their parent squadron number followed by the letters DF to show that they are a Detached Flight e.g. No 38DF is the service shortform title for No 38 (Crieff) Detached Flight, raised by No 38F (Perth) Squadron. The establishment of Officers
Officer (armed forces)
An officer is a member of an armed force or uniformed service who holds a position of authority. Commissioned officers derive authority directly from a sovereign power and, as such, hold a commission charging them with the duties and responsibilities of a specific office or position...
, WOs, SNCOs (Non-Commissioned Officer
Non-commissioned officer
A non-commissioned officer , called a sub-officer in some countries, is a military officer who has not been given a commission...
s) and cadet NCOs is dependent on the size of the Squadron or DF. There are approximately 48 Detached Flights currently in being.
Each squadron is usually commanded by a RAFVR(T) Officer (although this is not always possible; 213 (City of Rochester) 291 (Westminster) and 1440 (Shoreham-By-Sea) are examples of a squadron run by a Warrant Officer). The Commanding Officer (or CO) has a good deal of autonomy in running the unit but also carries heavy responsibilities. Additionally where a unit has other members of staff the CO allocates their duties and also provides recommendations on the appointment, retention and promotion of those staff.
Another member of the adult staff with much responsibility within a unit is the Squadron Warrant Officer (Sqn WO). This person will hold the rank of Warrant Officer
Warrant Officer
A warrant officer is an officer in a military organization who is designated an officer by a warrant, as distinguished from a commissioned officer who is designated an officer by a commission, or from non-commissioned officer who is designated an officer by virtue of seniority.The rank was first...
, or may be a SNCO if no Warrant Officer is on squadron, and will typically have spent many years working within the squadron or at least within the ATC.
In the case of no commissioned officers being present, the Sqn WO will take charge of the unit. At all other times, the Sqn WO will usually hold a closer relationship with the cadets than the CO will.
This basic structure has many permutations - varying numbers of cadets and staff, accommodation and facilities. A typical Detached Flight consists of the Officer Commanding and a minimum of fifteen cadets and is often housed in rented accommodation.
At the other extreme a large Squadron can consist of 120 plus cadets, 4 commissioned officers, two non-commissioned officers and a half dozen Civilian Instructors.
Structure
The Air Training Corps is formed of six Regions across the United Kingdom and each of these Regions are made up of six Wings.Regions
- Central & East Region
- London & South East Region
- North Region
- Scotland & Northern Ireland Region
- South West Region
- Wales & West Region
Wings
Squadrons
The first 50 squadrons formed have their squadron numbers followed by an F to show they are "founder" squadrons (e.g. No 42F (King's Lynn) Squadron). Only 30 are still in existence, as the other 20 have disbanded over time. XIX Crawley Squadron regained their number after the original Squadron was disbanded, but were not allowed the F so instead requested and were allowed to be the only Squadron to use Roman numerals.In towns not large enough to sustain a squadron of 30 cadets, or as a supplement to an existing squadron in a larger town or city, a Detached Flight may be formed. This operates much like any other unit, but is technically a component part of a nearby larger squadron. There are 39 Detached Flights currently in being. They have their squadron numbers followed by the letters "DF" to show they are a detached flight.
A full list of current ATC units can be found on the Air Cadet Organisation website (see external links).
Junior Cadets
People aged between 13 and 17 can join the ATC. On joining, and until enrolment, they are given the title 'Junior Cadet' (formerly 'Probationer') as they can go along to most meetings to get a feel for the ATC. Upon enrolment they are permitted to wear uniform after 4 weeks training, and begin working towards their '1st Class Cadet' classification. Once cadets reach 1st Class classification they are able to take part in almost all ATC activities. This idea was pioneered by Air CommodoreAir Commodore
Air commodore is an air-officer rank which originated in and continues to be used by the Royal Air Force...
Gordon Moulds
Gordon Moulds
Air Commodore Gordon Moulds, CBE is a Senior Royal Air Force Officer who recently finished a tour as Commander of Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan.-Military career:...
while he was Commandant Air Cadets, as he believed that the old Probationer system, which did not enrol cadets until they could pass their 1st Class classification, was resulting in cadets losing interest and leaving before enrolment.
Cadets
From the age of 13, and subject to successfully completing lessons in a number of subjects, Junior Cadets can be enrolled as a First Class Cadet. Cadets can stay in the corps up until age 20. Prior to mid May 2007 they must have reached the rank of Cadet Sergeant by age 18 to be eligible to remain in the Corps after this age (the requirement to have reached a specific rank by age 18 was revoked in mid-late May 2007 after the policy had been in place for some 3½ years. Cadets not of the rank of Cadet Sergeant must, however, apply for an extension if they wish to stay beyond their eighteenth birthday). Those who stay on beyond 18 are known as Staff Cadets. All cadets over the age of 18 must complete a duty of care course within 6 months of their 18th birthday.All cadets are issued with uniform and must each pay a small amount in subscriptions (or 'subs' as they are commonly known), usually around £50-£100 per year (£2 a night), although this can vary widely from squadron to squadron. The subscription money covers parts of the activities undertaken by the Cadets for example Adventure Training, local camps etc. Each squadron also has to pay a fixed amount to their Wing to which it belongs for each cadet 'on its books'. This is then split between the Wing, Region and Headquarters. Activities such as small and full bore target shooting, flying and gliding are paid for by the Royal Air Force
Royal Air Force
The Royal Air Force is the aerial warfare service branch of the British Armed Forces. Formed on 1 April 1918, it is the oldest independent air force in the world...
-public money.
Cadet NCOs
As Cadets become more experienced, and if suitable, they can be promoted by their Squadron's Commanding Officer (CO) to the status of Cadet NCOsNon-commissioned officer
A non-commissioned officer , called a sub-officer in some countries, is a military officer who has not been given a commission...
. Fellow cadets and staff within the ATC do not often refer to other cadet NCOs with the word 'cadet' before addressing another cadet NCO. For example a cadet would say "Yes, Corporal" rather than "Yes, Cadet Corporal". Promotion to the ranks of Corporal, Sergeant and Flight Sergeant is at the discretion of the Commanding Officer. They (or a representative) will make a decision based on merit and leadership potential - many squadrons have formal selection procedures, whilst others select by observing potential during normal training. Promotion to Cadet Warrant Officer is decided by a panel at Wing level. Prospective candidates will be a Flight Sergeant, preferably holding the Instructor Cadet classification and will be required to attend an interview with the Wing Commander or their representative. Cadets who reached the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer were formerly allowed to remain an Air Cadet until they were 22 years old, however all cadets must leave by age 20.
The NCO ranks within the ATC mirror those of the RAF's non technical/flying trades and are, in ascending order of seniority:
| Cadet Corporal Corporal Corporal is a rank in use in some form by most militaries and by some police forces or other uniformed organizations. It is usually equivalent to NATO Rank Code OR-4.... (Cdt Cpl) |
|
|---|---|
| Cadet Sergeant Sergeant Sergeant is a rank used in some form by most militaries, police forces, and other uniformed organizations around the world. Its origins are the Latin serviens, "one who serves", through the French term Sergent.... (Cdt Sgt) |
|
| Cadet Flight Sergeant Flight Sergeant Flight sergeant is a senior non-commissioned rank in the British Royal Air Force and several other air forces which have adopted all or part of the RAF rank structure... (Cdt FS) |
|
| Cadet Warrant Officer Warrant Officer A warrant officer is an officer in a military organization who is designated an officer by a warrant, as distinguished from a commissioned officer who is designated an officer by a commission, or from non-commissioned officer who is designated an officer by virtue of seniority.The rank was first... (CWO) |
|
It is common within the ATC to abbreviate these ranks by dropping the prefix "Cadet". Cadet Warrant Officers are addressed as "Warrant Officer", "Warrant", "CWO", "Cadet Warrant" or "Cadet Warrant Officer" (Warrant Officer is the correct form of address, but curiously is rarely used), and not as "Sir/Ma'am".
Staff (previously Instructor) Cadets
All cadets who are over the age of 18, must complete a "BASIC" (Basic Adult Staff Induction Course) or "Duty of Care" course and have the prefix "Staff Cadet" before their rank. These Cadets wear a rank slide with the words 'STAFF CADET' embroidered below their rank insignia (or on plain slides for those of cadet rank). A staff cadet has extra responsibilities over under-18 year olds which include a duty of care to the younger Cadets and NCOs. Staff Cadets are required to attend training to aid them in their transition from 'child' to 'adult'.Nevertheless, staff cadets have no authority over cadets below the age of 18 holding the same or more senior rank, unless the situation puts cadets at risk then the staff cadet can step in by acting as an adult rather than a cadet but only in extreme cases. This has been the source of much debate within the ATC.
Cadet classifications
Not all cadets who join the ATC can expect to receive promotion. However, all cadets can progress through the training system and, by passing exams, achieve different classifications. The classification levels are Junior Cadet, Second Class Cadet (this is automatically achieved on enrollment), First Class Cadet, Leading Cadet, Senior Cadet, Master Air Cadet and Instructor cadet. For each of these qualifications cadets study a variety of subjects. An overview of the required standards is shown below, some units may also add further criteria such as first aid qualifications before allowing a cadet to complete all of the exams.These subjects are studied using tuition from the instructors, and/or self-study from Air Cadet Publications or ('ACPs'). Each successive qualification generally allows a cadet greater participation. For example, cadets must be First Class before they can take part in some activities such as UK annual camps, while Leading Cadets can participate in overseas activities. Cadets who have achieved the Master Air Cadet classification have completed their academic training and can attain a BTEC Award in Aviation Studies. Subsequent (and optional) successful completion of the Cadet Methods of Instruction Course entitles the cadet to wear a yellow lanyard over the left shoulder and take on a training role. These cadets are known as Instructor Cadets.
First Class Cadet
First Class is also commonly referred to as 'Basic Training'. Before May 2008, the cadets would spend a lot of time in the classroom studying the following subjects: The Air Training Corps, The Royal Air Force, History of Flight, Initial Expedition Training, Basic Communications and Airmanship I (these are still used by some squadrons today such as XIX Crawley Sqn and 9F(Islington) Sqn). After a number of lectures and when the cadet felt ready, they would take a multiple choice examination either on paper or on a computer software program. some wings run courses that would involve the cadet spending a few solid days learning and would then be presented with the appropriate classification if successful in their exams. In May 2008, HQAC decided to change the first class training programme. It is possible they decided that new recruits (junior cadets) were being deterred by exams. A variety of methods are now used to test a cadet's understanding of the subject, including practical tests and exercises to test ability, and interviews/quizzes to test knowledge.All junior cadets also have to pass a practical Drill Test to become first class. The drill test is a sequence of simple drill manoeuvres essential for forming squads and a good foundation to build on for more advanced drill.
Leading Cadet
For a cadet to become a leading cadet, they must have already gained first class status. They will then have to complete 3 examinations which are: Airmanship II, Basic Navigation and Principles of Flight. All exams for leading cadet and above (with the exception of Staff Part 2) are multiple choice and consists of 25 questions, and are invigilated by an independent invigilator. The pass mark is 13 on each exam.Senior Cadet (Old Syllabus)
For a cadet to become a senior cadet, they must have already gained leading cadet status. They will then have to take 2 exams from a choice of 8 subjects, examined in the same way as for the Leading cadet syllabus. The 8 subjects are: Air Navigation, Pilot Navigation, Satellite Communications, Propulsion, Airframes, Advanced Radio and RADAR, Aircraft Handling and Operational Flying.Staff Part 1(Old Syllabus)
The highest academic classification is Master Air Cadet. For a cadet to become a 'MAC', they must have already gained Senior Cadet status, be 15 years old, and to have sat and passed two more exams from the subject list (as for Senior). There was no badge for this classification, and cadets kept their "Senior" badge until they achieved Staff Part 2 (An interview with their Wing Staff Officer), when they remove their classification badge and are allowed to wear the yellow lanyard (not to be confused with the new syllabus where the lanyard represents a "methods of Instruction" course).Senior and Master New Syllabus
As of 1 September 2010, when the new classification structure came in to force, a new syllabus and examination process was also to be introduced with a 12-month roll-out period. During the roll-out, Squadrons may elect to either sit the old paper-based (2 subject) exams, or sit the new computer-based 3 subject exams. The roll-out for the exams however has been staggered, with the intention of introducing the Leading Cadet exams first, then Senior and Master later. Once the Senior and Master training materials and exams are ready, the following subjects will be available:Piston Engine Propulsion, Jet Engine Propulsion, Rocketery, Aircraft Handling and Flying Techniques, Air Power, Airframes, Avionics and Aircraft Electrical Systems, Military Aircraft Systems, Basic Air Navigation, Basic Principles of Pilot Navigation, Advanced Radio and Radar, Data Communications.
Master Air Cadet has its own new badge for the brassard which shows an ATC Falcon surrounded by laurel leaves.
Instructor Cadet
A Master Air Cadet may, on the recommendation of their OC, apply to attend the Cadet Methods of Instruction Course. Successful completion of the course and assessment that follows, will entitle them to wear a yellow lanyard over the left shoulder, and be referred to as 'Instructor Cadet'.Adult staff
The staff who run the ATC at unit level come in 3 types: commissioned officers, senior NCOs and civilian instructors (CIs). All uniformed staff must attend training courses run by the RAF at the ATC Adult Training Facility, RAF CranwellRAF Cranwell
RAF Cranwell is a Royal Air Force station in Lincolnshire close to the village of Cranwell, near Sleaford. It is currently commanded by Group Captain Dave Waddington...
(ATF), usually within a year of appointment, with further courses as they progress up the rank structure.
| Adult Staff Ranks | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commissioned Officers | Insignia | Non-commissioned Officers | Insignia | Civilian Staff | Insignia |
| Officer Cadet Officer Cadet Officer cadet is a rank held by military and merchant navy cadets during their training to become commissioned officers and merchant navy officers, respectively. The term officer trainee is used interchangeably in some countries... (Off Cdt) |
 |
Sergeant Sergeant Sergeant is a rank used in some form by most militaries, police forces, and other uniformed organizations around the world. Its origins are the Latin serviens, "one who serves", through the French term Sergent.... Sgt (ATC) |
Civilian Instructor (CI) | None normally worn, although may be seen with a lapel pin or an armband, or may be wearing a sweatshirt or polo shirt with a logo. |
|
| Pilot Officer Pilot Officer Pilot officer is the lowest commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many other Commonwealth countries. It ranks immediately below flying officer... (Plt Off) |
 |
Flight Sergeant Flight Sergeant Flight sergeant is a senior non-commissioned rank in the British Royal Air Force and several other air forces which have adopted all or part of the RAF rank structure... FS (ATC) |
Chaplain Chaplain Traditionally, a chaplain is a minister in a specialized setting such as a priest, pastor, rabbi, or imam or lay representative of a religion attached to a secular institution such as a hospital, prison, military unit, police department, university, or private chapel... |
None normally worn, although may be seen with a lapel pin |
|
| Flying Officer Flying Officer Flying officer is a junior commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many countries which have historical British influence... (Fg Off) |
 |
Warrant Officer Warrant Officer A warrant officer is an officer in a military organization who is designated an officer by a warrant, as distinguished from a commissioned officer who is designated an officer by a commission, or from non-commissioned officer who is designated an officer by virtue of seniority.The rank was first... WO (ATC) |
|||
| Flight Lieutenant Flight Lieutenant Flight lieutenant is a junior commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many Commonwealth countries. It ranks above flying officer and immediately below squadron leader. The name of the rank is the complete phrase; it is never shortened to "lieutenant"... (Flt Lt) |
 |
Warrant Officer* WO (ATC) | .jpg) |
||
| Squadron Leader Squadron Leader Squadron Leader is a commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many countries which have historical British influence. It is also sometimes used as the English translation of an equivalent rank in countries which have a non-English air force-specific rank structure. In these... (Sqn Ldr) |
 |
||||
| Wing Commander Wing Commander (rank) Wing commander is a commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many other Commonwealth countries... (Wg Cdr) |
 |
||||
*Ex-regular WO, or (formerly) granted to other ATC WOs for long service, and may still be found as such.
Officers
Officers are commissioned into the Training BranchRAF VR(T)
The Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve , often abbreviated to RAFVR is a voluntary element of the British Royal Air Force specifically appointed in a training role within the RAFVR...
of the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
The Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve consists of a number of groupings of individual military reservists for the management and operation of the Royal Air Force's Air Training Corps and CCF Air Cadet formations, Volunteer Gliding Squadrons , Air Experience Flights, and also to form the...
- the RAFVR(T). Unless an officer has previous service, he or she is commissioned as a substantive Pilot Officer, termed Officer Cadet until the Officers Initial Course at RAF Cranwell is completed. Unlike RAF Officer Cadets at the RAF College or RAFVR Officer Cadets of the University Air Squadron, RAFVR(T) Officer Cadets are, in fact, commissioned and as such are entitled to proper paid compliments. In coming years this is likely to change and the non-commissioned Officer Cadet RAFVR(T) rank will be introduced, bringing the RAFVR(T) in line with the RAF and RAFVR. Promotion to Flying Officer normally occurs after two years. Former regular commissioned officers usually start at Flying Officer, subject to certain conditions. After 9 years commissioned service, or upon becoming Officer Commanding
Officer Commanding
The Officer Commanding is the commander of a sub-unit or minor unit , principally used in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth. In other countries, the term Commanding Officer is applied to commanders of minor as well as major units.Normally an Officer Commanding is a company, squadron or battery...
of a squadron and completing an Officers' Senior Course (OSC), the rank of Flight Lieutenant (acting paid) is bestowed - Squadron Commanders who have yet to complete OSC may hold the rank of Flight Lieutenant (acting unpaid). Squadrons are usually commanded by Flight Lieutenants, who are also found as Wing and Regional staff officers along with Squadron Leaders and Wing Commanders. Particularly large squadrons are sometimes commanded by Squadron Leaders (usually when the squadron has 100 or more cadets).
NCOs and WOs
Adults may also be appointed as senior NCOs, these being ranks within the ATC meaning that they are not part of the RAF. Adult NCOs/WOs are uniformed in the same way as their RAF counterparts with two exceptions: a small gilt ATC badge is worn on the rank badge and Warrant Officers wear a different rank badge (unless they have previous regular or active reserves warranted service). Until recently, the ranks of adult NCOs/WOs were Adult Sergeant, Adult Flight Sergeant and Adult Warrant Officer (abbreviated to A/Sgt. A/FS, AWO), however this has been changed since it was not deemed necessary to point out that these NCOs were adults. The ranks of Adult NCOs/WOs are now:- Sergeant (ATC)
- Flight Sergeant (ATC)
- Warrant Officer (ATC)
These are abbreviated to Sgt (ATC), FS (ATC) and WO (ATC) respectively. In conversation Adult NCO's are often still referred to using the old style ranks, such as Adult Sergeant X, and their ranks are sometimes mistakenly abbreviated according to the old system (i.e. ASgt, AFS or AWO).
Prior to the 'LaSER (London and South East Region) Review' of 2003, the adult ranks of Sergeant and Flight Sergeant did not exist, meaning that the non-commissioned rank structure of a squadron was more straight forward i.e. Cadet, Cadet Corporal, Cadet Sergeant, Cadet Flight Sergeant, Cadet Warrant Officer, Adult Warrant Officer. This has been disturbed by inserting the ranks of Sgt (ATC) and FS (ATC) and WO (ATC).
Civilian Instructors and Chaplains
Civilian Instructors, known as CIs, play an important role in training cadets and, in many ways, are the 'backbone' of the Squadron. Unlike Adult NCOs and Officers, CIs should not wear uniform and do not form part of the chain of command in the squadron. However, out of respect, they are still referred to as Sir or Ma'am by cadets. Some units wrongly mandate the wearing of arm bands or lapel pins to identify CIs, particularly when on RAF Stations. Recently, a new Civilian Instructor's uniform has been rolled out across the corps, consisting of a light blue polo shirt and dark blue sweatshirt bearing the name of the corps and "Royal Air ForceRoyal Air Force
The Royal Air Force is the aerial warfare service branch of the British Armed Forces. Formed on 1 April 1918, it is the oldest independent air force in the world...
, in an effort to standardise the means by which CIs are identified.
Similarly, ATC Chaplains are usually civilian members of the local clergy (although forces chaplains may join as Service Instructors). Civilian Chaplains also do not normally wear uniform, and are generally addressed as 'Padre' by all ranks.
ATC Chaplains hold an Honorary position on the Squadron, and thus, unlike their regular military counterparts, do not hold an Officers Commission, and are thus not saluted.
Service Instructors
Members of the Armed Forces often assist at ATC Squadrons in the role of Service Instructor – they engage in instructional duties which are often related to their serving role. Service Instructors wear the uniform of their parent unit and are addressed appropriately, with ranks junior to NCO being addressed as "Staff".Civilian committee
For each level of command there is an associated Civilian Committee. There is a minimum of 5 members to any "Civ Com", and there must be a chairman, treasurerTreasurer
A treasurer is the person responsible for running the treasury of an organization. The adjective for a treasurer is normally "tresorial". The adjective "treasurial" normally means pertaining to a treasury, rather than the treasurer.-Government:...
and secretary
Secretary
A secretary, or administrative assistant, is a person whose work consists of supporting management, including executives, using a variety of project management, communication & organizational skills. These functions may be entirely carried out to assist one other employee or may be for the benefit...
as well as the OC (an ex-officio member) and someone to take minutes
Minutes
Minutes, also known as protocols, are the instant written record of a meeting or hearing. They typically describe the events of the meeting, starting with a list of attendees, a statement of the issues considered by the participants, and related responses or decisions for the issues.Minutes may be...
. The Civ Com is responsible for overseeing the initial unit formation and direction. The committees, consisting of respected members of the community often including parents of cadets and retired staff, also manage finances (in particular fund raising) but do not have any executive authority.
The ATC is a charitable organisation. The Royal Air Force provides funds for a few of the key activities such as flying training. These finances are known as 'public funds'. The great range of other activities offered by the ATC however are financed from 'non-public fund'. Here the Civilian Committees come into their own in their tireless efforts to seek the necessary financial assistance, by way of fund-raising, which allows these other activities to take place.
Events organised by Civilian Committees to raise money can be:
- Cadets packing bags for money at the local supermarket
- General 'spare change' collections at local events
Squadrons are "charities excepted from registration". This means they enjoy all of the legal benefits of a registered charity without the burden of registration.
Activities
Activities undertaken by cadets in the ATC include:- Flying
- Air Experience Flights
- Gliding
- Marksmanship (Shooting)
- Drill
- Adventure Training
- Climbing
- Fieldcraft
- First Aid
- Communications
- Leadership Training
- ACO Cadet Leadership
- Land Command Leadership Course (Nesscliffe)
- Cadet Leadership Course (CTC Frimley Park)
- Junior Leaders
- Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme
- Sports
- Rugby UnionRugby unionRugby union, often simply referred to as rugby, is a full contact team sport which originated in England in the early 19th century. One of the two codes of rugby football, it is based on running with the ball in hand...
- HockeyField hockeyField Hockey, or Hockey, is a team sport in which a team of players attempts to score goals by hitting, pushing or flicking a ball into an opposing team's goal using sticks...
- NetballNetballNetball is a ball sport played between two teams of seven players. Its development, derived from early versions of basketball, began in England in the 1890s. By 1960 international playing rules had been standardised for the game, and the International Federation of Netball and Women's Basketball ...
- Association Football
- SwimmingSwimming (sport)Swimming is a sport governed by the Fédération Internationale de Natation .-History: Competitive swimming in Europe began around 1800 BCE, mostly in the form of the freestyle. In 1873 Steve Bowyer introduced the trudgen to Western swimming competitions, after copying the front crawl used by Native...
- Athletics
- Cross-country running
- OrienteeringOrienteeringOrienteering is a family of sports that requires navigational skills using a map and compass to navigate from point to point in diverse and usually unfamiliar terrain, and normally moving at speed. Participants are given a topographical map, usually a specially prepared orienteering map, which they...
- Rugby Union
- Music
Trophies
ATC Squadrons each have a chance annually to win the two most prized trophies in the Corps. The Sir Alan LeesAlan Lees
Air Marshal Sir Alan Lees KCB CBE DSO AFC was an Royal Air Force officer who became Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief RAF Reserve Command.-RAF career:...
Trophy is awarded by the Commandant to the Squadron with the best statistics and overall impression when inspected. The Morris Trophy is Awarded from the 6 regional candidates upon inspection by the Commandant.
| Year | Winner | Officer Commanding |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | No. 241 (Wanstead and Woodford) Squadron, London Wing | Squadron Leader Squadron Leader Squadron Leader is a commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many countries which have historical British influence. It is also sometimes used as the English translation of an equivalent rank in countries which have a non-English air force-specific rank structure. In these... Jerry Godden RAFVR(T) |
| 2009 | No. 610 (Chester) Squadron, Merseyside Wing | Flight Lieutenant Flight Lieutenant Flight lieutenant is a junior commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many Commonwealth countries. It ranks above flying officer and immediately below squadron leader. The name of the rank is the complete phrase; it is never shortened to "lieutenant"... John Kendal RAFVR(T) |
| 2010 | No. 1475 (Dulwich) Squadron, London Wing | Squadron Leader Kevin Mehmet RAFVR(T) |
| 2011 | No. 215 (Swansea) Squadron, No. 3 Welsh Wing | Squadron Leader Phil Flower RAFVR(T) |
| Year | Winner | Officer Commanding |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | No. 2409(Halton) Squadron, Herts and Bucks Wing | Squadron Leader Squadron Leader Squadron Leader is a commissioned rank in the Royal Air Force and the air forces of many countries which have historical British influence. It is also sometimes used as the English translation of an equivalent rank in countries which have a non-English air force-specific rank structure. In these... Jerry Davies RAFVR(T) |
| 2008 | No. 1855 (Royton) Squadron, East Lancashire Wing | Flight Lieutenant Mark Hamilton RAFVR(T) |
| 2009 | No. 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron, Central and East Region | Flight Lieutenant Alyn Thompson RAFVR(T) |
| 2010 | No. 126 (City of Derby) Squadron, Central and East Region | Squadron Leader Ian Marshall RAFVR(T) |
| 2011 | No. 1855 (Royton) Squadron, East Lancashire Wing | Flight Lieutenant Mark Hamilton RAFVR(T) |
Additionally cadets are open to achieving trophies such as the Foster and Currall Trophies. The Foster Trophy being awarded to the cadet who has achieved the highest academic results in the entire Corps over his/her time in the ATC, after finishing the cadet syllabus that leads to achieving a Btec in Aviation.
In addition to the trophies mentioned above there are also trophies presented annually by the Royal Air Forces Association
Royal Air Forces Association
The Royal Air Forces Association, more often known as RAF Association, or simply RAFA, is a UK based charitable organization which provides care and support to serving and retired members of the "Royal Air Forces" and their dependents.The organisation, which was formed in 1943, receives no funding...
. These trophies include the "Sir Douglas Bader Wings Appeal Trophy" for the ATC squadron collecting the most money on a per capita basis, The squadron achieving second place is awarded the “Sir Augustus Walker Trophy". the “Sir Robert Saundby Trophy” is awarded for collecting the highest net Wings Appeal amount.
Annual camps
The ATC runs numerous Annual camps each year, run on RAF Stations so that cadets may get a taste of service life. Annual camps are organised at Wing level with place for all squadrons, so that every cadet who wishes to take part and who has achieved at least the First Class qualification may attend. Cadets usually stay in RAF barrack blocks and eat in the station's messMess
A mess is the place where military personnel socialise, eat, and live. In some societies this military usage has extended to other disciplined services eateries such as civilian fire fighting and police forces. The root of mess is the Old French mes, "portion of food" A mess (also called a...
facilities. The itinerary is always packed with typical ATC activities such as air experience flying, shooting, adventure training and, of course, drill. Cadets will also have the opportunity to visit various sections of the station and meet the people who work there.
Overseas camps
For older and more experienced cadets who have achieved the Leading Cadet qualification and attended a UK Annual Camp, the corps also offers overseas camps. These are more expensive than UK camps, as the cost of flights has to be paid for, and are generally more relaxed and seen as a reward for hard working and long serving cadets. Since the end of the Cold WarCold War
The Cold War was the continuing state from roughly 1946 to 1991 of political conflict, military tension, proxy wars, and economic competition between the Communist World—primarily the Soviet Union and its satellite states and allies—and the powers of the Western world, primarily the United States...
, and the closure of RAF stations in Germany, the number of overseas camp opportunities has decreased. As of 2007 the destinations for overseas camps are:
- RAF AkrotiriRAF AkrotiriRoyal Air Force Station Akrotiri, more commonly known as RAF Akrotiri , is a large Royal Air Force station, on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. It is located in the Western Sovereign Base Area, one of two areas which comprise Akrotiri and Dhekelia, a British Overseas Territory, administered as a...
on CyprusCyprusCyprus , officially the Republic of Cyprus , is a Eurasian island country, member of the European Union, in the Eastern Mediterranean, east of Greece, south of Turkey, west of Syria and north of Egypt. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.The earliest known human activity on the...
. A 10 day camp over the EasterEasterEaster is the central feast in the Christian liturgical year. According to the Canonical gospels, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion. His resurrection is celebrated on Easter Day or Easter Sunday...
schoolSchoolA school is an institution designed for the teaching of students under the direction of teachers. Most countries have systems of formal education, which is commonly compulsory. In these systems, students progress through a series of schools...
holiday period and at select other times of the year. - RAF GibraltarRAF GibraltarRoyal Air Force Station Gibraltar, better known as RAF Gibraltar and formally as North Front, is a Royal Air Force station on Gibraltar. No military aircraft are currently stationed there, but there are regular visits...
in GibraltarGibraltarGibraltar is a British overseas territory located on the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula at the entrance of the Mediterranean. A peninsula with an area of , it has a northern border with Andalusia, Spain. The Rock of Gibraltar is the major landmark of the region...
. - JHQ RheindahlenRheindahlenRheindahlen may refer to*RAF Rheindahlen*Rheindahlen Military Complex*Rheindahlen, Mönchengladbach...
in GermanyGermanyGermany , officially the Federal Republic of Germany , is a federal parliamentary republic in Europe. The country consists of 16 states while the capital and largest city is Berlin. Germany covers an area of 357,021 km2 and has a largely temperate seasonal climate...
. - USAF RamsteinRamstein Air BaseRamstein Air Base is a United States Air Force base in the German state of Rheinland-Pfalz. It serves as headquarters for the United States Air Forces in Europe and is also a North Atlantic Treaty Organization installation...
in GermanyGermanyGermany , officially the Federal Republic of Germany , is a federal parliamentary republic in Europe. The country consists of 16 states while the capital and largest city is Berlin. Germany covers an area of 357,021 km2 and has a largely temperate seasonal climate...
. A camp at the base during the summer. - International Four Days MarchesInternational Four Days Marches NijmegenThe International Four Day Marches Nijmegen is the largest marching event in the world. It is organised every year in Nijmegen in mid-July as a means of promoting sport and exercise. Participants walk 30, 40 or 50 kilometers daily, and, on completion, receive a royally approved medal...
in Nijmegen, The Netherlands, annually in July, where cadets complete a 160 kilometres (99.4 mi) walk over 4 days.
Work Experience camps
Another - newly introduced - option for more senior cadets are Work Experience Camps - whilst annual camps aim to give cadets a general taste of service life, the Work Experience Camps cater to cadets who are interested in a specific trade, such as the RAF Regiment or RAF Police.Other camps
Cadets may also have the opportunity to attend other sorts of annual camp, such as a locally (i.e. wing or squadron) organised camp - often based around adventure training or fieldcraft, or as guests on a camp run by one of the other cadet forces such as the Army Cadet ForceArmy Cadet Force
The Army Cadet Force is a British youth organisation that offers progressive training in a multitude of the subjects from military training to adventurous training and first aid, at the same time as promoting achievement, discipline, and good citizenship, to boys and girls aged 12 to 18 and 9...
or Sea Cadets
Sea Cadets
Sea Cadets are generally members of a Sea Cadet Corps, a formal uniformed youth organisation for young people with an interest in water borne activities and or the national Navy. The organisation may be sponsored in whole or in part by the Navy, Navy League or Naval supporter's organisation...
. There is also the Music camps for band members. Camps based around fieldcraft, survival and requiring the cadets to be in No. 3 Uniform (DPM) for most of the time spent on the camp, are mostly and affectionately known as 'Greens camps'.
Uniform
All cadets are issued with a uniform similar to that worn by the RAF, with the standard uniform consisting of a dark blue shirt and brassard, grey trousers (male cadets) or skirt/slacks (female cadets), blue-grey jumper (when required) and a dark blue beret. Black shoes are provided by the cadet.Cadets are also issued with a light blue shirt and tie for formal occasions, and are usually either issued with or privately acquire a DPM
DPM
-Science and technology:* Damp-proof membrane, see damp proofing* Data Position Measurement* Diesel particulate matter, see diesel exhaust* Digital processing module, see digital signal processing...
(camouflage) uniform. Cadets may wear other specialist uniforms, such as flight suit
Flight suit
A flight suit is a full body garment, worn while flying aircraft such as military airplanes, gliders and helicopters. These suits are generally made to keep the wearer warm, as well as being practical , and durable . Its appearance is usually similar to a jumpsuit. A military flight suit may also...
s, when required.
Branding
Advertising material such as leaflets and official websites brand the Air Training Corps and Combined Cadet ForceCombined Cadet Force
The Combined Cadet Force is a Ministry of Defence sponsored youth organisation in the United Kingdom. Its aim is to "provide a disciplined organisation in a school so that pupils may develop powers of leadership by means of training to promote the qualities of responsibility, self reliance,...
together as Royal Air Force Air Cadets
See also
- RAFVR(T) Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Training) Officers
- Royal Air ForceRoyal Air ForceThe Royal Air Force is the aerial warfare service branch of the British Armed Forces. Formed on 1 April 1918, it is the oldest independent air force in the world...
- Girls Venture Corps Air CadetsGirls Venture Corps Air CadetsThe Girls Venture Corps Air Cadets is a voluntary uniformed youth organisation for girls aged between 11 and 20, It is also a registered charity, and by virtue of its work towards the personal and social development of young people, it is a member of The National Council for Voluntary Youth Services...
- Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps
- Combined Cadet ForceCombined Cadet ForceThe Combined Cadet Force is a Ministry of Defence sponsored youth organisation in the United Kingdom. Its aim is to "provide a disciplined organisation in a school so that pupils may develop powers of leadership by means of training to promote the qualities of responsibility, self reliance,...
- Army Cadet ForceArmy Cadet ForceThe Army Cadet Force is a British youth organisation that offers progressive training in a multitude of the subjects from military training to adventurous training and first aid, at the same time as promoting achievement, discipline, and good citizenship, to boys and girls aged 12 to 18 and 9...
- Royal Canadian Air CadetsRoyal Canadian Air CadetsRoyal Canadian Air Cadets is a Canadian national youth program for persons aged 12 to 18. It is administered by the Canadian Forces and funded through the Department of National Defence with additional support from the civilian Air Cadet League of Canada...
- Australian Air Force CadetsAustralian Air Force CadetsThe Australian Air Force Cadets , known as the Air Training Corps until 2001, is a Federal Government funded youth organisation. The parent force of the AAFC is the Royal Australian Air Force...
- New Zealand Air Training CorpsNew Zealand Air Training CorpsThe Air Training Corps or ATC is one of the three corps in the New Zealand Cadet Forces, the other two being the New Zealand Cadet Corps and Sea Cadet Corps. It is funded in partnership between the RNZAF and communities, and its members are civilians. Members have no obligation to head into the...
- Civil Air PatrolCivil Air PatrolCivil Air Patrol is a Congressionally chartered, federally supported, non-profit corporation that serves as the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force . CAP is a volunteer organization with an aviation-minded membership that includes people from all backgrounds, lifestyles, and...
- Cadet Vocational Qualification Organisation (CVQO)Cadet Vocational Qualification Organisation (CVQO)The CVQO manages Vocational Qualifications for members of the British cadet organisations.- Rationale :Young people who are members of the Cadet Forces gain skills that include :* Leadership* Team building* Problem-solving* Communication...
- Reserve Forces and Cadets AssociationReserve Forces and Cadets AssociationReserve Forces and Cadets Associations are regional civilian bodies comprising voluntary members and a small full time secretariat. They are established by statute to offer advice and support to the Defence Council on behalf of the Reserve Forces and Cadet Movement. In particular they are...
External links
- The Air Cadet Organisation The official ATC website - includes links to many Region, Wing and Squadron websites.
- ATC Squadron Finder A searchable list of all ATC Squadrons and their contact details
- Air Cadets Squadron Finder Provides details of all Squadrons including address & location map, contacts details, parade times & Squadron website
- No3 Welsh Wing ATC