Flying

Following the formation of the Air Training Corps in 1940, real 'hands on' flying opportunities for cadets were very limited due to the type and number of aircraft available. However, in 1957 it was decided that the Corps would have it's own fleet of 50 Chipmunk, two seat, tandem, basic training aircraft, split up  into 13 flights known as Air Experience Flights (A.E.F's).The introduction of these aircraft brought flying for the cadets into a new era, they were now able to handle the controls even on their first flights, and were also able to experience to the full, the joys of aviation.

In 1996 the Chipmunk was replaced by the Bulldog two seat, side by side training aircraft, which affords a far better view for the cadet but which does not have the "character" of the Chipmunk. Now even the Bulldog is to be phased out to make way for the GROB Tutor.

In addition to AEF flying, cadets also have the opportunity to fly in other service aircraft, especially whilst at annual camp, and occasionally even have the chance to fly as a passenger in a "fast jet".

The best course for any young person, must be a place on the 'Flying Scholarship Scheme'. In addition to ground training, cadets complete 40 hours of flying training including approximately 4 1/2 hours solo flying and leads to the award of the much coveted Flying Scholarship "Wings". The hours flown on this course are counted towards those required for the issue of a Private Pilots License.

Flying Scholarship Wings

Shooting

With the ATC, cadets are taught to fire a variety of rifles using live ammunition. As you progress and become more accurate, you will be trained to fire even better and more powerful weapons. These are: 

* The L98, otherwise known as the General Purpose Cadet Rifle (GPCR) is the semi-automatic variant of the SA80 - the primary assault rifle of the British Army!

Shooting Awards

If you show a talent for marksmanship, you could be given the opportunity to try for the following awards.

First Class Shot - You must fire five rounds into a target from 25 meters, all of which must hit an area of 1.5" diameter. This award is taken using the Number 8 weapon.

ATC Marksman

You must fire five rounds into a target from 25 meters, all of which must hit an area of 1" inch diameter. This award is also taken using the Number 8 weapon.

RAF Marksman

- This is harder and is taken using the more powerful L-98 rifle. You must complete three sections:
1.) You must fire ten rounds into a target from 25 meters within 30 seconds.
2.) The targets are not visible for the entire time, but appear five times for 3 seconds at irregular intervals (at a range of 25 meters). All bullets fired must hit the target.
3.) You fire five rounds into a target from 25 meters, all of which must hit an area of 2" inch diameter.

Drill

Drill is considered by some cadets as being a necessary evil, but others greatly enjoy it. Being part of a large squad all marching in exact time and responding as one to orders, can give a huge sense of achievement. You can see some drill movements being executed in the picture gallery.

Common drill movements and how to execute them:

Marching:
Marching is the smart walk used by the military. When you march, you lead off with your left foot and your right arm, and bring your right arm parallel with your shoulder. Then, you bring your right foot about 20cm in front of your left foot, and at the same time bring your left arm parallel with your shoulder.

Attention:
Standing at attention is one of the most basic drill actions, and is when a cadet stands smartly, feet together and arms by the sides. It is a simple, one-action movement - when a person with rank shouts the order "Attention"  you  immediately stand up straight, with your heels together, feet 45 degrees apart, hands down the seams of your trousers, chest out and head up. You do not leave the attention position unless ordered to.

Standing at Ease:
The ease position is another standing position used by the military. It is a very easy movement - when given the order ("stand at ease"), you immediately stand up straight, legs shoulder length apart.

Salute:
A salute is a sign of respect to a commissioned officer, used by all military services. The movement is a big circle with your right hand flat, until you reach your eye, the timing of which is "up-2-3-down." On the "down," you bring your arm straight down to the seam of your trouser.

Right Dress:
This Is the military way to arrange a flight of cadets into straight lines. First everyone must be formed up in ranks of two or three. The command will come "Right Dress" - at this point, you put your head and eyes to the right, and if on the front row, you put your right arm up at 90 degrees and move until your fist is just touching the person next to you. If you are on the end rank and are centre or back, then you put your right arm up 90 degrees in front of you until it is just touching the person in front. The right marker remains standing at attention facing forwards.

Annual Camp

Annual Camp is a week long trip to an RAF base in the UK, usually taking place once a year for each squadron. Cadets can also be selected to go to camp in Cyprus, or America. Cadets are shown around the base and told about what each section does. for a better idea of what you can expect to be doing on an overseas camp, look at our picture gallery. Opportunity flights are also available with A.E.F. squadrons or in other craft such as helicopters. Other activities such as sports events are arranged and cadets can also do work experience in the base.