Classifications of Cadets

The ATC has a fixed training syllabus and uses a graded series of classifications to make it run more smoothly. Cadets can progress from Probationer to Staff Cadet. Additional specialist courses are available for cadets - for example pilot training in powered aircraft, microlights and gliders, air navigation, leadership, drill instruction, and many other subjects.

Some ex-cadets re-join the adult staff of the ATC - or become VR(T) officers - on leaving the Corps. 

When cadets first join the ATC they are classified as CADET ON PROBATION. This is usually for a period of three months; until you are enrolled as a cadet.

When you are enrolled into the ATC, you become a SECOND CLASS CADET. You stay at this classification until you pass your first exam.

FIRST CLASS CADET

While you are a cadet on probation and a second class cadet, you learn about the basics of the ATC. These include: -

• The History of the ATC

• The Organisation of the ATC

• Dress and Discipline

• The RAF

• How to handle a Rifle Safely

• Initial Expedition Training

• First Aid

• Communications

Although this may seem like a *very* long list, it usually takes about 6 months to learn everything. To gain the classification of First Class Cadet, you must pass an exam on the subjects learned

LEADING CADET

Once you have become a First Class Cadet, you start training for the next classification. This is the LEADING CADET. This classification studies aviation a lot more in depth than First Class training. You also have to take a project to do. This has to be completed during your training for Leading Cadet, so you have to stick to it. There are a number of projects available to cadets at 425, including: - 

• Modeling - building both display and flying model aircraft

• Communications - become a radio operator, learn web page design etc 

• Adventure Training - field craft, camouflage, survival, camps etc

• Armoury - supervised training on weapons

• Flight Simulator - Flying training on the PC

The training for leading cadet usually lasts 9 months,  then you take another exam.

SENIOR CADET

On becoming a Leading Cadet you begin training for the next classification; Senior Cadet. This classification involves specialising in and concentrating in the subject you find most interesting. Project work also continues throughout duration as a Senior Cadet.

Training for Senior cadet normally lasts 9 months, the you take yet another exam!

STAFF CADET

On passing the Staff Cadet exam you will become a fully fledged Staff Cadet. This classification involves continuation of the technical subject studied at Senior Cadet level. At Staff Cadet level: -

• Training includes things like organisation and management skills, as you will expected to take on responsibilities for organising and running squadron activities.

Staff Cadet training normally takes about 9 months.

ADDITIONAL TRAINING

Additional training courses for both cadets and staff are held at both Wing HQ and at other venues - some residential - throughout the year. Wing course subjects and dates can be found on the calendar on the Wing HQ web site. The CO is notified of vacancies for cadets on other courses - which include flying, gliding, air navigation, parachuting, drill instruction, target shooting, adventure training, leadership and a large number of other subjects - as they become available throughout the year.

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