We get asked loads of questions, so to make it easier, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular questions. If you want to know something that is not listed, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
There are several ways the local community can support our Wing and our Squadrons. You can learn more here.
Cadets and volunteers get to do a huge variety of activities such as flying, gliding, target shooting, adventure training, sports, camps, drill, academic studies and lots of other things. There’s never a dull moment.
Become a cadet
You can join at 13 years old, or 12 years old if you’re already in year 8 at school. The cutoff age for joining is before your 17th birthday. Many cadets wrap up their journey around age 20, while some stay on as adult volunteers or trustees.
Become an adult volunteer
If you’re 20 or older (uniformed officers can serve up to age 65) and have been a UK resident for 3 years, we’d love to welcome you onboard. Committing around 12 hours a month, you’ll need to understand the needs of young people, bring patience, responsibility, and kindness to the table, and have a decent level of fitness – no Olympic feats required! Learn more.
Become a trustee
Are you age 20+ and can spare around 12 hours a year? Learn more.
Squadrons are open twice a week, generally 2.5 hours each night. Each squadron opens on different week nights. Squadrons also frequently deliver activities on weekends. Find your local squadron.
Cadets and volunteers are encouraged to attend as frequently as possible. Trustees generally meet for 12 hours a year.
Yes, there are lots of opportunities for cadets to get involved with fun activities as well as the more serious side of things, but the focus is always on enjoying yourself while improving your skills.
There are a huge number of expedition opportunities, some overseas, but the most well-known and popular option is the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which entails overnight expeditions. They’re great fun. But there are lots of other expeditions that pop up regularly.
Cadets sport three types of uniforms: Working Blues, Wedgewood Blues, and MTP-PCS. You’ll be issued with Working Blue and Wedgewood Blue uniforms, but you’ll need to get your own MTP-PCS uniform set, along with Parade Shoes and Boots. Some squadrons have a small stock of MTP-PCS, parade shoes, and boots which can be loaned out.
Yes! Everyone is very friendly, and you always feel welcome.
Depending on ability, performance and aptitude, for cadets with disabilities, medical conditions and additional needs to access Royal Air Force Air Cadet activities, reasonable adjustments are made wherever reasonably practicable.
To support and enable cadets with disabilities, medical conditions and additional needs to engage as fully as possible, risk assessments are made and collaboration with parents/carers is used to assess and develop strategies to further support and safeguard your child.
We take the well-being of our cadets seriously. If you’re interested in learning more about our approach to security and safeguarding children, visit the safeguarding and security guides on the main RAF Air Cadets website.