Training
Every cadet has the opportunity to progress through an academic training syllybus where
they will learn all about subjects related to aviation and the Royal Air Force.
There are four stages, or classifications, that can be achieved, they are:
First Class - This syllybus covers the basic information about the ATC and the RAF, plus a variety of other interesting subjects that will give new cadets the foundations they need to go on to a successfull career in the squadron.
Leading cadet - For cadets to achieve their Leading Cadet classification there are three mandatory subjects to study, as well as a fourth, optional subject; Airmanship II, Basic Navigation, Principles of Flight plus the option of Communications. At the end of the training period cadets take written exams, in a multiple choice answer format. The pass mark for each exam is 60% and if any one subject is failed the cadet obtains a partial pass and can re-sit that subject again.
Senior Cadet - Just like Leading there is an exam to pass senior, however, only two subjects are studied this time. Cadets can choose from: Air Navigation, Propulsion or Advanced Radio & Radar. As with the Leading Cadet qualification, cadets have a written exam in a multiple choice answer format.
Staff Cadet (Part 1) - The Staff Cadet exam comes in two parts, Staff Part 1 is a written exam in two of the following subjects: Airframes, Operational Flying or Satellite Communications. Once cadets have complete their Staff Part 1 syllabus, they are eligible to be awarded a BTEC Certificate in Aviation Studies, which is equivalent to 2 GCSE's.
Staff Cadet (Part 2) - To complete Staff Cadet training cadets have to pass an oral exam conducted by one of the Wing Staff Officers. This exam is designed to assess cadest in the following areas; Knowledge of Corps structure; its aims and requirements, Knowledge of Squadron admin. and supply procedures, and the cadets' organisational and instructional abilities.
Once passed BOTH parts, the coveted Staff Cadet Lanyard is awarded.
