The Air Training Corps is the largest operating authority of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme in the country. The Scheme, which is designed to encourage participation among young people, aged 14 to 25, is split into the four sections listed below plus a further residential element for participants in the Gold Award:
- Volunteering
- Skill
- Expedition
- Physical
Air Cadets have a head start in the D of E award as many of the activities they pursue as members of their squadrons also qualify them for the different sections of the D of E Awards, for example a cadet can meet the requirements of the skills section by passing his or her Leading Cadet examination. Similarly a Cadet Corporal on a squadron can complete their Service section by instructing a flight of new recruits for three to six months.
In addition cadets who have completed the D of E award gain advantage if they enroll on the BTEC First Diploma in Public Services as many of the skills gained during their D of E training can be applied to the BTEC, thus improving their chances of a credit or distinction pass.
Finally cadets who have successfully completed any level of the D of E Award are permitted to wear a badge on the shoulder patch of their uniform jumper marking their achievement.
For more information on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award visit the D of E website at www.dofe.org