Parents

Recruitment

The Air Cadets offer a wonderful opportunity for young people to grow and learn lots of new skills. You will find that they suddenly acquire abilities you never thought they would: they appear somehow fitter, smarter, can fly a plane, handle a rifle, and even work an iron!

Much of what they do in Cadets gives them a helping hand in other aspects of their life — their discipline, teamwork and communication skills will all be enhanced by spending time on the Squadron, and they will develop a sense of confidence in their abilities. Employers, schools and universities alike look favourably on membership of the Air Cadets as the sign of a confident, disciplined and “can do” young person.

And yet, there are still reservations you may have as a parent.

Below are some of the frequently asked questions that we get asked. If you do have any others, then please contact us. We will be happy to discuss any questions or perceived issues in total confidence.

FAQ

 
Sounds great, but how much will all this cost me?
Not as much as you fear, we promise! Our affiliation with the Royal Air Force means that much of our activity is subsidised. We ask for subscriptions of just £1 per parade night to contribute to the Squadron’s running costs and activity programme. Our other activities vary in cost. For example, flying, gliding and shooting is generally without charge to Cadets but there are some (subsidised) fees for Summer Camps and other specialist courses.

However, it is our intention that no Cadet should miss out on any of the opportunities available to them due to economic reasons. So please speak with the Commanding Officer if you have difficulties in payment — we will always discuss options with you in complete confidence.

Will my son/daughter be expected to buy lots of things?
No. We issue the ‘blue’ uniform for all Cadets free of charge, although we do expect cadets to buy their own parade shoes (there are a variety of new or second hand outlets). Cadets may purchase combat clothing, which they use for adventure training and sometimes we have a small supply that we either issue or obtain for Cadets at a discounted rate. However, we would advise against purchase of combat kit until your son/daughter has been with the squadron for some time. Other equipment (e.g. tents and rucksacks etc.) for adventure training will be issued from the Squadron. We do not charge for this, although equipment which is damaged/not returned will be billed to the Cadet.

Some of the activities sound dangerous; will my son/daughter be safe?
Cadets’ welfare and safety is the highest priority for all the staff. All of the Squadron staff undergo extensive security and background checks, and there are always First-Aid qualified staff on hand. For adventure training and other activities (e.g. shooting), the supervising staff are well-qualified and experienced, with training to ensure Cadet safety. If you have concerns, you are welcome to direct them to the Officer Commanding, who can reassure you. Additionally, we ask that all Cadets are escorted where possible to and from the Squadron, particularly in the winter months, and after activities. We regret that we cannot be held responsible for Cadets’ travel arrangements to and from the Squadron.

My son/daughter a medical or other condition, for example: asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, learning difficulties. Will this affect what they can do?
No. The initial consent form asks for medical details on a Cadet, and we ask that you make us aware of any condition which may affect your son/daughter at Cadets. We will accommodate them where possible, but regrettably there may be occasions where a Cadets participation in an activity will be limited for their own safety. Again, please contact the Squadron if you have any questions.

Can I get involved too?
We are always delighted to welcome more help on the Squadron. There are two ways you can get involved. The first is via the Squadron’s “Civilian Committee”. The committee consists of a Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer and other members including parents who meet on average once every two months to discuss fund raising activities and to monitor the overall progress and welfare of the squadron.

Alternatively, you can take a more hands-on approach by becoming a Civilian Instructor and joining the Squadron staff. We will require you to complete a security and criminal records check before entering a probationary period on the Squadron. No previous experience in the Services or Cadets is required — just enthusiasm and a willingness to work hard on behalf of our Cadets! For more information look at the adult recruitment page or contact the Commanding Officer.
 

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