When you first start there is a short time of settling in.  This is where we see if you like us and we like you.  It is where we see if you will settle into the Squadron and that you really want to be a part of it.  Some young people leave within the first few weeks - that’s fine - if it’s not for you then all you have to do is tell the staff.

We hope you will stay and in a few weeks be issued with your uniform.  The uniform (except shoes & high leg boots) is issued on loan to you free of charge except 'greens' which requires a £20 refundable deposit.  It is expensive so please look after it and remember that if and when you leave it must be returned to the Squadron.

We run an introductory programme for new starters designed to give you the basic training in a shorter time.  Such things as uniform upkeep, drill and deportment, safety, weapon handling, basic adventure training, airmanship and our rules and regulations could all be covered.  Remember, that although we are a youth organisation we do have connections to the Royal Air Force, indeed they pay for your uniform, your Squadron building and the flying you will be doing shortly as well as other things.  We expect cadets to be smart and tidy and to wear their uniform with pride.  We expect good manners and good behaviour as well as loyalty to your Squadron and the Corps.  If you do not feel that you can do these things then you should not join. These are qualities which will stand you in good stead in later life.

Some cadets, maybe not much older than you, will have been promoted to become Non Commissioned Officers — Corporals, Sergeants, Flight Sergeants or Cadet Warrant Officers. They have earned their authority. One day you may become an NCO so please treat them with respect and carry out any instructions from them. It’s how it is and it works well.

Looking ahead.....

Although we are connected with the Royal Air Force you are under no liability to join the Services. Many of our cadets do go on to join not only the RAF but the Army or the Navy. Others go on to join the Police or go onto University and into many careers. All will have found their training and experiences in the Air Cadets an advantage.

There is a structured training programme of aviation subjects on the Squadron which leads to classifications and even the BTEC in Aviation Studies. But it’s not all academic. There is sport, shooting, flying, adventure training, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme, leadership training, the International Air Cadet Exchange Scheme, Junior Leaders Course and more.

Flying in powered aircraft or gliders is an experience many young people can only dream of. You can do it for real. Opportunities exist in sport not only on your own Squadron but to represent your Wing, the Region or even the Corps. Can you imagine the pride of wearing your Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award on your shoulder patch? It commands respect because it has to be earned. You will be even more proud when you receive the award at one of the Royal Palaces. You may be selected for the International Air Cadet Exchange and visit one of 11 countries such as India, America, Canada. Many courses are available to you and there are opportunities to visit RAF Stations and weekly camps.