What happens now?
After we’ve met you and you’ve had a chance to talk to some of our cadets and staff, either at an open evening or on one of our parade nights, we’ll take some details from you and give you some forms to fill in. We’ll then invite you down to the squadron for every sports and projects evening until our next recruit course begins.
The course consists of three weekends, usually spread out over a few months, and we’ll teach you everything you need to know to be a cadet. After you complete the course you’ll receive your First Class Cadet badge, have a uniform issued for free and take part in a “passing out parade”. You’ll then be part of the squadron!
The course programme
- Day 1 You’ll meet everyone else on your course and learn about the ATC, 226 Squadron, our rank structure and how to look after your uniform.
- Day 2 You’ll spend the day learning to march, salute and do all the other basic drill movements.
- Day 3 You’ll learn about the RAF, the history of flight and practice your drill.
- Day 4 You’ll learn how to safely handle and fire a rifle, as well as the principles of good marksmanship.
- Day 5 You’ll spend the morning learning how to communicate with radios and in the afternoon we’ll teach you everything you need to know in order to fly - airfield layout, safety in aircraft, runway markings and aircraft instruments.
- Day 6 You’ll learn how to use a map and compass, how to pitch tents and pack backpacks and a load of other stuff you need to know before you participate in expeditions.
The final part of your training, which takes place sometime after you “pass out” is a two-day Basic Fieldcraft Course, where you’ll learn how to live and eat in the field, as well as camouflage yourself and make tactical moves as part of a team.
We're always on the look-out for new cadets and staff so if you're interested, the next thing is to...
Get in Touch →