Training

The Class System

Second Class

Once enrolled as a cadet you are classified as Second Class Cadet. As a Second Class Cadet you will be able to participate in most activities and will be able to wear the uniform.

First Class

First Class

To attain First Class classification you will need to pass a set syllabus of several subjects including ATC, RAF, The Rifle, Airmanship 1, Map Reading, Initial Expedition, Communications as well as Drill.

A lesson Underway

First Class cadets are eligible to attend camp and participate in all activities subject to any specified restrictions e.g. age.

Leading Cadet

Leading

Leading Cadet classification is attained by passing three subjects in a multiple choice exam paper. Such subjects may include Air Navigation, Airframes and Radio Communications and Radar.

It is a requirement for cadets to be Leading or above to participate in some activities i.e. overseas camps.

Project work is an essential part of each classification after 1st Class. At least 25 hours should be completed towards each classification. Projects usually have an aviation theme, though this is not essential.

Senior Cadet

Senior

Senior Cadet classification is attained by successfully passing two subjects in a multiple-choice exam. Although there are only two subjects they are more technical than the subjects at Leading Cadet level. Cadets who wish to be promoted above Corporal should ideally be a Senior Cadet.

One of our NCOs learning.

Staff Cadet

Staff

To attain Staff Cadet classification and the yellow braid it is necessary to have been enrolled for two years and then successfully pass two further subjects in a multiple-choice exam. This is known as Part 1. Having Passed Part 1 it is necessary to successfully pass Part 2, which consists of an interview taken by an independent assessor who assesses the cadet's knowledge of the ATC and their ability to teach/instruct. As an added incentive cadets who pass Staff Cadet are also awarded the full BTEC Certificate in Aviation Studies. This certificate is equivalent to a GCSE Grade C and is recognized by employers including the Royal Air Force.

BTEC in Public Services

In addition to the BTEC in Aviation Studies it is now possible to gain a qualification that takes account of all your cadet achievements and is recognised outside the cadet organisation. Cadets can now work for their BTEC First Diploma in Public Services. This Diploma is equivalent to 4 GSCEs grade A to C. The Diploma takes into account not only the academic studies but also other activities completed by the cadet.

In order to gain the award you will have to complete 6 Units including:

Each successfully completed Unit and the overall Diploma will be graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction.

What do you as a Cadet have to do?

Answer:
  1. Stay in cadets beyond your 16th birthday and complete a registration form available from your Unit Commander. Once completed, hand in your form to your Unit staff to be registered through Wing HQ.
  2. Pass 1st Class and Leading Cadet exams, Map & Compass, Physical Activity (DOE Physical Section) and Expedition Training.
  3. Two adventurous training activities
  4. Give a 5-minute presentation
  5. Pass a Wing NCO Course - leadership, teamwork & communications.
  6. Complete Unit 1 Project (to be completed in Feb/Mar)
  7. Answer some questions on Teamwork and Nutrition.

Unit 1 Project consists of roles and responsibilities of Public Services (RAF and one other e.g. Army), Jobs within the Public Services (RAF), Application and Selection Process (RAF) and Entry Requirements and Career Development (RAF).

While the work required to be completed for gaining the Diploma sounds a lot, most of it you may have already done or will do through your normal Air Cadet activities so any additional work will be worth the reward of the equivalent 4 GCSEs at Grade A* to C the First Diploma brings.