AnnualReport2006-7 newclours.pmd
Transcription
AnnualReport2006-7 newclours.pmd
AIR CADETS Annual Report 2007 Contents… 2 Commandant’s Introduction ........................................................................................ 3 Foundation stones ........................................................................................................ 5 Focus on the future ...................................................................................................... 6 Gliding – “Alpha Charlie Whisky 02…ready for departure” ..................................... 8 Flying – Horizons unlimited ....................................................................................... 10 Gearing up for recruitment ........................................................................................ 12 Regional Activity Centres........................................................................................... 14 Hollywood glamour for cadets .................................................................................. 16 Walk on the wild side ................................................................................................ 18 Qualifications R Us ..................................................................................................... 20 Sporting moments ...................................................................................................... 22 On target and Junior Leaders ................................................................................... 24 Music – Taking the stage ............................................................................................ 26 Bricks and mortar ....................................................................................................... 28 Air Cadet accolades ................................................................................................... 30 Pastoral care and Health & Safety ............................................................................ 32 First Aid ....................................................................................................................... 33 Sponsorship and statistics ......................................................................................... 34 HRH The Duke of Edinburgh KG KT OM GBE AC QSO The Air Training Corps (ATC) is honoured to have His Royal Highness, the Duke of Edinburgh as its Air Commodore-in-Chief. Foreword… By Commandant Air Cadets Air Commodore Gordon Moulds In my personal involvement with the ACO for the last 16 years, I have always been impressed by the dedication, enthusiasm and commitment that is shown by both the cadets and the volunteers, the breadth of activities undertaken by them, and the volume of good work and fund-raising they do in their local communities. Together, they form the backbone of our forward-thinking organization, leading the way for the cadets to meet the challenge as the ‘Next Generation’. The following pages highlight some, but by no means all, of their outstanding achievements in the last year, and also mark the broad range of activities and opportunities that the ACO offers to its members. It is my belief that there is no other youth organization that offers such a diverse range of activities, from flying to adventurous training, music, sport, shooting and road marching – the list is only limited by people’s imagination. Above all though, you will see cadets who are enjoying themselves and developing into confident and responsible adults with a true sense of citizenship. I would like to express my personal gratitude for the selfless work done by the volunteer staff in the ACO, without which the organization would not function. Their hard work and commitment, together with the parenting provided by the RAF, provides an investment in the future of our young people, and helps us to continue to deliver our mission to be an air-minded youth organization and remain one of the finest in the country. I also appreciate the efforts of my staff to maintain flying opportunities for the cadets despite the reduction in RAF numbers and the closure of some RAF bases. Our second national Adult Recruitment Campaign ran successfully throughout March this year, with a specially designed glossy brochure being sent out to those who showed interest, and using the RAF’s call centre in Bristol. As the first campaign showed that units needed specialised equipment to enable them to recruit in their own areas throughout the year, it has now been provided in the form of marquees, desks and banners for each Region and Wing. These initiatives and the continuing hard work of all my staff will ensure that the ethos and fun the ACO provides is set to engage and broaden the cadets’ horizons, while the volunteers expand theirs. 3 4 Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpy talks to cadets of 1475 (Dulwich) Squadron ATC, London Wing. Foundation stones… The ACO is a national youth organization for young men and women aged 13-20. It is also a registered charity. The ACO comprises two sections – the Air Training Corps (ATC) and the Combined Cadet Force (RAF). The CCF (RAF) was established in 1948 and its sections are located in 198 state and independent schools across the United Kingdom. The ATC was established in 1941 and has nearly 1,000 squadrons divided into 36 wings which then split into six regions. Volunteer staff can either take a commission in the RAF Volunteer Reserve (Training Branch), become Senior Non-Commissioned Officers, Civilian Instructors, Civilian Gliding Instructors, Chaplains or join Civilian Committees. Commandant Air Cadets Air Commodore Gordon Moulds, based at HQ Air Cadets, RAF Cranwell, Lincolnshire, is responsible for both the ATC and the CCF(RAF). ACO Vision: To ensure the ACO continues to flourish and to remain true to the ideals laid down in its Royal Warrant, especially the provision of adequate aviation and other challenging activities to enable it to attract and retain membership and thereby provide example and leadership for today’s youth. Mission: To be a modern, dynamic, sustainable air-minded youth organization of choice that offers fun and challenging opportunities. Volunteer staff can either take a commission in the RAF Volunteer Reserve (Training Branch), become Senior Non-Commissioned Officers, Civilian Instructors, Civilian Gliding Instructors, Chaplains or join Civilian Committees. Aims: The aims of the ACO are clear, demonstrating the ideals of producing enthusiastic and thoughtful young men and women who will strive to achieve in whatever walk of life they choose. The three fundamental aims are: To promote and encourage among young people a practical interest in aviation and the RAF; To provide training which will be useful in both the Services and in civilian life and; To foster the spirit of adventure and to develop the qualities of leadership and citizenship. 5 6 Focus on the future… Air Commodore Moulds’ intent is that the ACO is an organization second to none, trained and equipped to provide the necessary support, but modern, flexible and committed to continuous improvement. The ACO constantly assesses its past, implements change to meet the challenges of today, and contemplates the likely demands of the future. Powered flying, gliding, shooting, UK and overseas camps, adventure training, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and visits to RAF bases are still the key factors influencing young people to join the Air Training Corps. In addition, drill, the appeal of the uniformed disciplined environment, charity work and citizenship training continue to attract youngsters to the organization. Hopefully, our appeal will be raised even further by the aspiration of the current Commandant, Air Commodore Gordon Moulds, for each cadet to have the opportunity for flights in both a glider and Tutor aircraft, to experience an adventurous activity, and to achieve both a bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and a BTEC diploma in Aviation Studies. Currently 15 per cent of cadets achieve a bronze DoE Award and 11 per cent earn a BTEC in Aviation Studies, however, within five years the Commandant wishes 80 per cent of cadets to achieve both. Air Commodore Moulds’ intent is that the ACO is an organization second to none, trained and equipped to provide the necessary support but modern, flexible and committed to continuous improvement. It needs a strong corporate identity, the ability to offer opportunity to all, and a strong ethos of professionalism, team spirit, commitment and self-discipline. Our attention is currently focused in two main areas: Firstly, in maintaining the high profile of both gliding and flying, particularly in the light of the RAF drawdown which has meant the closure of some RAF bases. Secondly, in ensuring that we have sufficient volunteers to enable the ACO to function properly. The ACO’s second national Adult Recruitment Campaign ran throughout March with 1,200 responses to its adverts and more funding was made available for recruiting and publicity equipment to ensure that local recruitment initiatives can be run by squadrons and wings as required throughout the year. The recruitment strategy, supported by Air Officer Commanding 22 Group RAF has been very favourably received. As for the future, the ACO continues to strive to identify the key components, partnerships and engagements for a future prosperous organization via the study ‘Air Cadets - 2020 Vision’ and the Commandant’s Vision. Meanwhile, the ACO will maintain a nationwide light blue footprint for the RAF in civilian communities that it would not otherwise have, and provide a recruiting bounty for all three Services, as well as good citizens and sound employees for wider employment across all industries. 7 Cadets visit the display glider at RAF Museum Hendon 8 Alpha Charlie Whisky 02...ready for “The course was a great opportunity to get into departure... flying and take on the responsibilities of going Blue skies, nothing but blue skies…well not quite, the weather can be troublesome, but soaring past clouds into the sunshine in a glider can be an exhilarating experience. The day begins with a morning briefing from the Met Office on wind speed, temperatures, precipitation and cloud formations and an overview of flying expectations from the duty instructor. Then all kitted out in flying suits, the cadets and instructors vacate the briefing room, skip down the stairs two at a time and cross the grass to the flight line. Cadets are flying the Grob 103, Viking winch launched gliders, and Vigilant motor gliders. The former has a steep ascent but is sleek and quiet while the Vigilant takes off in the manner of a conventional prop plane. Each has their own qualities but safety is paramount at all times so checks are meticulous. The air traffic controllers scan the skies to ensure a clear flight path and Alpha Charlie Whisky 02 - the call sign of Squadron Leader Chris Heames, the Chief Instructor at Air Cadet Central Gliding School RAF Syerston, Nottingham is the first to fly out. Cadets begin their instruction in what can lead to going solo and gaining their wings. The scenario is replicated at each of the ACO’s 27 Volunteer Gliding Squadrons across the UK week in, week out. This year, the squadrons and the Air Cadet Central Gliding School (ACCGS) have provided in excess of 11,300 Gliding Induction Courses (GIC) and more than 1,800 Gliding Scholarship (GS) places for cadets. Statistics show that 779 cadets achieved both their solo flight and their Silver Wings. The figures are impressive but one must remember the ACO is the largest gliding organization in the world. One outstanding example of achievement during the year was that of Cadet Sergeant David Loveridge who became the second cadet from 759 (Beccles) Squadron in a month to complete a gliding scholarship. solo, it was also a brilliant place to meet new people. I’d recommend it to anyone.” David, from Ditchingham spent a week at Watton Airfield flying the Viking glider. However, the week got off to a bad start with the first four days lost to poor weather. With the pressure mounting on David to log the required amount of training to be considered to go solo he pulled out all the stops and managing to fly the glider to a sufficient solo standard within 3 days! He crammed in a total of 35 launches and was the first on the course of eight cadets to go solo. David also received a special flight at the end of the following day, as a passenger to a pilot performing spectacular aerobatics that you would not have thought possible in a glider. After the course, David said: “The course was a great opportunity to get into flying and take on the responsibilities of going solo, it was also a brilliant place to meet new people. I’d recommend it to anyone.” 9 Horizons unlimited... 10 11 Air Experience Flying The Air Cadet Pilot Scheme Light Aircraft Scholarships The highly enjoyable Air Experience Flying, available to all cadets and conducted at 12 Air Experience Flights (AEFs) as well as during detachments at summer camps, is still extremely popular and well received. 1 AEF (St Athan) and 4 AEF (Glasgow) are now permanently staffed to fly cadets. Thousands of sorties were achieved across the year for cadets as young as 13. The Air Cadet Pilot Scheme, run at Tayside Aviation in Dundee, operated smoothly during the year. A total of 159 light aircraft courses were completed and 25 microlight courses ran at the RAF Microlight Club at RAF Halton. A further 40 places made available at different AEFs – embedded within University Air Squadrons. In addition to the publicly funded courses there were sponsored places provided by the RAF Association, the Geoffrey de Havilland Foundation, Babcock Defence Services, the Air League Educational Trust and the RAF Charitable Trust. Many cadets on scholarships and publicly funded courses go on to achieve their Private Pilot’s Licence and fly for the RAF, Army, Royal Navy or commercial airlines. Some achieve their PPLs before they get their driving licences at 17! Air Cadet Pilot Navigation Scheme The long running Air Cadet Pilot Navigation Scheme, currently conducted at AEFs saw 35 cadets successfully complete the course and earn the right to wear the appropriate badge. Well done to each of them. 12 Gearing up for recruitment... The promotional hardware has ensured that the ATC adopts a corporate identity when conducting its marketing. Each year the Air Training Corps recruits thousands of new cadets and volunteers. Now, for the first time, the task is easier thanks to the procurement of 54 promotional marquees, 1,000 large “join here” signs; 360 pull up boards, 360 magnetic vehicle signs and 54 desks. The kit for use by the ATC’s six regions, 36 wings, 27 volunteer gliding squadrons and 1,000 squadrons and detached flights cost £400k and has been warmly welcomed and extensively used at recruitment events, air shows, open days, sports meets, charity fundraisers and wing parades. Squadron Leader Mark Trevena, Media and Communications Officer for Thames Valley Wing ATC, augmented the crescent display of four colourful blue, white and yellow marquees with four flight simulators on loan from surrounding squadrons and wings. The ATC display proved a major hit at the event and was the perfect demonstration of how the promotional kit can raise the profile of the organization boosting recruitment into the bargain! Giving the ATC its first professional display equipment in the organization’s 66-year history was hugely satisfying for the team at Headquarters Air Cadets based at RAF Cranwell, Lincolnshire. The promotional hardware was purchased using an “enabling contract” through the Central Office of Information to achieve value for money and it has ensured that the ATC adopts a corporate identity when conducting its marketing. The marquees were based on those already purchased in Scotland & Northern Ireland Region. For decades the ATC has struggled to promote itself effectively as units have each had to find their own kit to stage events – very often borrowed trestle tables and RAF standard green marquees. The equipment will soon be complemented with professional presentation kits containing everything from standard speech notes, videos and Powerpoint presentations – all in a robust case – with options for cadet and volunteer recruitment as well as corporate and sponsorship according to the occasion. The marquees and associated equipment were launched at the RAF’s Spirit of Adventure event at Abingdon, Oxfordshire in May and despite the torrential rain a total of 16 new cadets and volunteer staff were recruited. The colourful Thames Valley Wing display at the RAF’s Spirit of Adventure event at Abingdon, Oxfordshire. 13 14 Regional Activity Centres... Whilst the ACO excels in many areas, it struggles to offer sufficient activities to some cadets through a lack of resources be it staff, facilities or support. To mitigate this, the organization intends to establish cadet Regional Activity Centres (RACs) across the country, initially two per region to introduce and improve opportunities for cadets to experience the range of cadet activity across the Corps. The centres propose to deliver the core cadet activities of air experience flying and gliding, aerospace activities (blue) and fieldcraft activities (green); they will also give the opportunity to conduct other activities such as sport/adventure training, First Aid, shooting, mountain biking, rock climbing etc, based on a weekend of programme “Plug & Play” activities. Cadets will have the opportunity to experience a range of activities in one weekend, with minimum time wasted on the ground. Further, these centres can be used for staff training. RAF Linton-on-Ouse in Yorkshire will be the home of the first RAC, which is currently being trialled for six months. In addition, preparatory work is underway to roll out the next RACs at RAF Stations: Leuchars, Cranwell, Halton and Aldergrove with the aim of them becoming operational in 2008. Should the concept prove successful the remaining centres will be established over a two to four year period. Further, over the next five years, the ACO intends to roll out the North Region’s initiative of aerospace centres, which should incorporate a glider and Tutor aircraft simulator at most glider sites in order to give cadets interesting aviation related activity opportunities whilst waiting for their flying slot. Cadets will have the opportunity to experience a range of activities in one weekend, with minimum time wasted on the ground. Further, these centres can be used for staff training. 15 16 Holl ywood g lamour for cadets… From rubbing shoulders with world leaders to making friends with Hollywood celebrities – membership of the ACO often puts cadets and volunteers in the spotlight. This year several cadets and staff have mingled with stars of the big screen and faced the excitement of “lights, camera, action” in the production of blockbuster movies. Sienna Miller (above left), Keira Knightly and Matthew Rys made quite an impression on cadets from No.3 Welsh Wing who were involved in the filming of ‘The Edge of Love’ – the story of Welsh poet Dylan Thomas due for release next year. ‘Hot Fuzz’ Meanwhile, cadets from 1955 (City of Wells) Squadron teamed up with ‘Shaun of the Dead ’ stars Simon Pegg and Nick Frost filming for the box office hit ‘Hot Fuzz’(above right). Six cadets and two staff were cast as members of a fictitious 1955 (Sandford) Squadron during scenes in the movie. It is not the first time that the ACO has been involved in filming for movies – in past years cadets and staff have also appeared in ‘Pearl Harbour’, ‘Saving Private Ryan’ and ‘Landgirls’. Casting agents looking for individuals with military skills often call HQ Air Cadets seeking extras for filming. The connections with Hollywood and celebrity are strong – actor Timothy Dalton who played 007 James Bond was a former air cadet, as was musician David Bowie. This year cadets from 444 (Shoreditch) Squadron also joined ‘Lord of the Rings’ star Sir Ian McKellen (above) in support of the newly resurrected Narrow Street Fair in London. World leaders and VIPs... Cadets often meet world leaders, politicians and royalty too and below are just three examples of their wider involvement: A total of 20 cadets and staff from 134 (Bedford) Squadron held a special parade outside of No.10 Downing Street for the Prime Minister and Defence Secretary (above right). Meanwhile, 2497 (Cosford) Squadron joined VIPs and veterans for the opening by HRH The Princess Royal of the UK’s first permanent exhibition on the Cold War at Cosford Air Museum. Guests included Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpy and former Prime Minister Baroness Thatcher (right). Last, but not least The Reverend Tom Tait, Air Training Corps Chaplain, met His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall (above) for the unveiling of a cairn in memory of the passing of the last veteran of the First World War, Mr Alfred Anderson from Alyth in Perthshire. 17 Travelling to challenging environments and experiencing new cultures is all part being in the ACO. Cadets and volunteer staff are given the support and backing to train, plan and execute UK and overseas expeditions that can enrich lives, generate friendship and establish a community bond that goes beyond cultural borders. 18 This year’s Shackleton Trophy – awarded to best overseas Air Training Corps expedition – was won by three squadrons from South and West Yorkshire Wing for their expedition to the Sierra Nevada Mountains, east of San Francisco in California USA. Cadets and staff from 59 (Huddersfield), 250 (Halifax) and 2458 (Shipley and Baildon) Squadrons embarked on a trek that saw them reach the highest and lowest geographic points on the western seaboard, including a trip into the famous Death Valley and a visit to Mount Whitney at 14,500 feet. Vibrant Aboriginal Culture Cadets and staff from Norfolk and Suffolk Wing embarked on an expedition to the remote and sub-tropical York Peninsula in Northern Australia offering them a rare first-hand encounter with wildlife and vibrant aboriginal culture. In Middlesex Wing for expedition ‘Jubilee Eagle’ volunteer staff and cadets undertook a community project and jungle expedition to Ghana in West Africa. The expedition coincided with the celebrations to mark the 50th Anniversary of Ghanaian independence and established further good relations for future cadet ventures. International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE) In this the 60th Year of the IACE, air cadets have continued to be ambassadors for the United Kingdom. A total of 96 air cadets and volunteer staff visited foreign climes within the programme and reciprocal visits were hosted by the Air Training Corps from 13 of the 18 member nations. In July, 15 cadets and four staff participated in a high profile visit hosted by the Ghana Cadet Corps, supported by the Ghana Air Force and British High Commission. In December, 10 cadets and two staff visited Singapore as the only UK participants in its National Cadet Corps exchange. Cadets had a rare insight into the rich tapestry of culture weaved between towering skyscrapers and the magnificent old colonial architecture, and a chance to walk through the streets of Little India with its bright fabrics and exotic spices. Cadet Camps The Air Training Corps and Combined Cadet Force (RAF) continue to maintain a strong international presence with 630 overseas camp places in Cyprus, Germany and Gibraltar. Another 12,662 cadets were hosted at RAF stations within the United Kingdom. The latter included a resurrected camp at RAF Aldergrove in Northern Ireland. Specialist camps focusing on aerospace engineering and music proved a great success as well as camps run by the RAF Regiment. 19 Qualifications R Us… 20 Gaining qualifications is now a recognised bonus of belonging to the Air Cadet Organization. Overseeing the operation is the Cadet Vocational Qualifications Organisation (CVQO) which is now well established as a registered charity responsible for managing vocational qualifications for members of the Air Training Corps, Combined Cadet Force, Sea Cadet Corps and Army Cadet Force. More than 12,000 learners registered with CVQO are working towards nationally recognised qualifications designed to show employers and educators the wide range of skills that young people and adults learn in the Cadet Forces. Cadets, on reaching 16 can enrol on the BTEC First Diploma in Public Services, equivalent to 4 GCSEs (grades A*-C) or, in Scotland, 4 Standard Grades (levels 1-3). Over 70 per cent of the work for the diploma is achieved through the cadet syllabus. The additional work is completed through workbooks. Cadets can also register for the BTEC in Aviation Studies which they qualify for purely by completing the ATC syllabus. Indeed the ATC’s focus is on the BTEC in Aviation Studies and on ensuring that 80 per cent of cadets achieve the qualification within five years. Additionally cadets involved in music can register for the BTEC First Diploma in Music which develops a basic understanding of music as a profession and combines both technical skills with practical elements and research. Senior cadets passing the ACO’s Junior Leaders’ Course can work towards the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 2 Certificate in Team Leading. There is also a written project that cadets have to complete. These qualifications are all free of charge for cadets. More than 12,000 learners are working towards nationally recognised qualifications designed to show employers and educators the wide range of skills that young people and adults learn in the Cadet Forces. Rewards for instructors Adults have similar opportunities to earn nationally recognised qualifications through CVQO for their cadet work. Not only does this include the BTEC Diplomas, but also assessor and verification qualifications for the teaching of First Aid. Those attending the Officer Initial Course can gain an ILM First Line Management qualification. As adults develop their ACO careers, opportunities arise for the Licentiateship (HND equivalent), Graduateship (graduate degree equivalent) and Membership (masters’ equivalent). This year adults who have completed the three senior awards will be invited to a prestigious graduation ceremony at RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire. Whether an individual’s objective is further education or improved opportunities in the workforce, a qualification through CVQO can pay dividends by giving them the additional edge required to reach those goals. Further information is available from www.cvqo.org These include the BTEC Diplomas; qualifications for those involved with teaching and training for First Aid and the Introductory Certificate in First Line Management – open to attendees of the Officers’ Initial Course. 21 Climbing every mountain and achieving qualifications...the opportunities are endless. Sporting moments... 22 The last 12 months have been exceptional for the Air Training Corps in the sports arena with cadets winning a number of prestigious trophies thus maintaining the organization’s fine reputation for achievement. In particular, the Air Training Corps beat their Army and Sea Cadet counterparts to win the annual Inter-Service Cadet Swimming Championships, held at HMS Tameraire in Portsmouth for the 36th consecutive year. This year the ATC won by the highest margin ever. Youngsters in the Air Cadets have the opportunity to play seven main sports – football, rugby, hockey, netball, swimming, cross-country running and athletics. The Tyre Eyre Trophy for the best overall ATC sports region was won by Central and East Region for the 5th consecutive year. The ATC Sports Cadets of the Year were selected as Cadet Sergeant Charlotte Hunt from 2409 (Halton) Squadron and Cadet Flight Sergeant Ross Catchpole from 104 (City of Cambridge) Squadron. Meanwhile, the inaugural presentation of the new Pathfinder Trophy - marking the introduction of the newly instituted Air Training Corps Orienteering League was made to 1406 (Spalding) Squadron. The sport places demands on navigation skills, physical stamina and individual decision-making. Creation of a generic competition template for use across the ATC is hoped to bring about a network of competitions across the country. National Air Cadet Adventure Training Centres Both Centres at Llanbedr in Wales and Windermere in Cumbria continued to be fully booked for a programme of 40 one-week courses starting from mid-February through to mid-November. The availability of BTEC funding combined with the release of more land round the Llanbedr Centre ensures the provision and scope of activities available will go from strength to strength. Youngsters in the Air Cadets have the opportunity to play seven main sports – football, rugby, hockey, netball, swimming, cross-country running and athletics. 23 On tar get… 24 25 Shooting is one of the most popular activities in the ACO and it is always conducted under strict supervision and in a manner that instils confidence and good discipline. Many squadrons have their own ranges and fully qualified staff develop the target shooting skills of the cadets enabling some to find international acclaim. Cadet Lewis Chambers of 1237 (North Hykeham) Squadron represented Great Britain in the 14th Junior International Air Rifle Match, finishing a credible 454 out of 600 as he lined up against experienced teams from America, Denmark, Germany and South Africa. Also this year, Cadet Sergeant Jarrad Ali, 18, from 2452 (Shawlands) Squadron Glasgow and West Scotland Wing emerged as the Cadet Forces’ top marksman winning the Individual Champion title at the Inter-Service Cadet Rifle Meeting in Bisley, Surrey. Jarrad took six individual first places but also paired up with Cadet Sergeant N Argo to secure the Gill Trophy (for highest ATC aggregate team points) for their squadron. Finally, No.1344 (Cardiff) Squadron maintained its reputation as one of the ATC’s top markmanship squadrons with a second place in both the Team Long Range Aggregate and Champion Unit Team events. Junior Leaders The Junior Leaders’ Course, is arguably one of the toughest courses on offer to cadets. The course continues to evolve and is well regarded for producing high calibre individuals with excellent leadership, management and life skills. In the last 12 months, 39 students have graduated from Junior Leaders’ Course No.7 and have been awarded the Institute of Leadership and Management Team Leading Certificate. The top student on the Air Cadet Junior Leaders’ Course was Cadet Warrant Officer Adam Cunningham of 41F (Taunton) Squadron. Graduates from this course along with students from previous courses completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in May raising funds for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award 50 th anniversary. Taking the stage… 26 Interest in music continues to develop and grow in popularity throughout the ACO. In February cadets from across the ATC and CCF (RAF) tuned up with volunteer staff and musicians from the Band of the RAF Regiment performing a national concert in Whittle Hall at RAFC Cranwell, Lincolnshire. To mark the 12th annual performance of the Air Cadet National Concert Band, musicians worked tirelessly throughout the week to ensure an outstanding performance on the Friday night, watched by an enthralled audience which included Commandant Air Cadets. In the lead up to the main event, the Air Cadet String Quartet was warmly received at functions in the Candidates’ and Sergeants’ Messes, including a dining-in night for the NCO aircrew intake. In warmer temperatures, the first Air Cadet National Concert Band Camp took place at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. Musical talent from across the Air Training Corps joined four members of the Royal Air Force Band for a fortnight’s training culminating in two grand concert performances. In addition to the main event, eight saxophone players from the ensemble, led by Cadet Warrant Officer Adam Horsfall, were invited into the British Forces Broadcasting Service studio for a chat and an impromptu live performance! The first Air Cadet National Concert Band Camp took place at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. Musical talent from across the Air Training Corps joined four members of the Royal Air Force Band for a fortnight’s training culminating in two grand concert performances. 27 Bricks and mor tar… 28 29 The re-opening of refurbished accommodation at 1122 (Marmion) Squadron, Tamworth. Building work in progress at the new Regional Activity Centre, RAF Leuchars, Scotland This has been an exceptionally busy year for ACO estate management. Running concurrently with the ongoing maintenance of a nationwide estate of in excess of 1,000 properties, staff were heavily involved in the planning and introduction of prime contracting. The latter will result in a transferral of responsibility for the maintenance of the estate from HQ Air Cadets to Defence Estates, with the former assuming the role of the Customer Estates Organization for the ACO. McCombie Cadet Centre - New home of 2367 (Banchory) Squadron Expenditure on property management for the estate across the financial year comprised of £4.6 million for new accommodation and £3.6 million for statutory, mandatory, planned maintenance and minor works. In addition to the daily maintenance of the estate, new purpose built office accommodation was provided for two wing headquarters enabling permanent staff to effectively administer the units under their command, in a safe and efficient environment. New purpose built dedicated training accommodation was also constructed for 11 squadrons and 17 squadrons received extensions and major refurbishments. To facilitate the introduction of new training policies, overnight accommodation was established at RAF Leuchars in support of the first ACO Regional Activity Centre and to enhance flying training support, six portacabins were also purchased for the Volunteer Gliding Squadrons. Air Cadet Accolades 30 Cadets, volunteers and permanent staff enjoyed a high level of success this year and for some their achievements were acknowledged in the New Year’s Honours List and the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. They included MBEs for retired RAF Wing Commander Peter Guiver, 74, whose 54 years of voluntary service have made him a valued and respected member of the Air Cadet Council and Air Cadet Council Steering Group, and for Squadron Leader Alan Clark, 56, who has been the driving force behind a nationwide effort to provide First Aid training and develop a syllabus for the Air Cadet Organization. Commander-in-Chief’s Commendations were also presented to Mr Gerald Russell, 76, the Chairman of 1924 (Shirley) Squadron Civilian Committee; Mr Merlin Hibbs, 50, of 1034 (Surbiton) Squadron Civilian Committee and to Flight Sergeant Darren Chapple, 38, who worked for the Combined Cadet Force (RAF) East Midlands Area. An Air Officer’s Commendation was awarded to Administration Officer Mr David Balfour, 64, of Edinburgh and South of Scotland Wing Air Training Corps. Some of the other awards made this year: The Dacre Brooch Awarded to the best Air Training Corps female cadet: Cadet Warrant Officer Lyndsay McGregor, 2331 (St Ives) Squadron, Beds & Cambs Wing The Dacre Sword Awarded to the best Air Training Corps male cadet: Cadet Warrant Officer Alistair Best, 2229 (Loughborough) Squadron, South & East Midlands Wing The Sir John Thomson Memorial Sword Awarded to the best Combined Cadet Force (RAF) cadet: Cadet Warrant Officer Thomas Stratton, Maidstone Grammar School The Cubby Sword Awarded to the best overall CCF Cadet: Cadet Corporal James Knowles, Wilsons School CCF (RAF) Cadets, volunteers and permanent staff enjoyed a high level of success this year and for some their achievements were acknowledged in the New Year’s Honours List and the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. The Air Squadron Trophy Awarded to the best Combined Cadet Force (RAF) section: King’s School Grantham CCF The Lees Trophy Awarded to the best Air Training Corps Squadron: 1145 (Dunfermline) Squadron The Morris Trophy Awarded to the runner up to the Lees Trophy: 2409 (Halton) Squadron The John Cunningham Bust Awarded to the top Geoffrey de Havilland Scholarship cadet: Thomas Hansford, formerly of Robert Gordon’s College, CCF (RAF), Aberdeen The Kriegie Trophy Awarded to the best air cadet attending the Cadet Training Centre (Frimley Park) Leadership Courses: Cadet Flight Sergeant Ben Homer, 492 (Solihull) Squadron. The Ganderton Sword Awarded to the best Officer Cadet attending the Initial Officer Course: Pilot Officer Caroline Tromans, West Mercian Wing The Foster Trophy Awarded for the highest aggregate marks in academic examinations: Cadet Corporal Thomas Beasant, 146 (Northwich) Squadron The Gillan Trophy For the best sports record over the year: Merseyside Wing The Terry Eyre Trophy Awarded to the best region for ATC sport: Central & East Region The Shackleton Trophy Awarded to the best ATC overseas expedition: Joint winners - 250 (Halifax), 59 (Huddersfield) and 2458 (Shipley and Baildon) Squadrons Aircraft Recognition Competition: Team winner of the Heracles Trophy: 110 (City of York) Squadron Individual winner of the Spitfire Trophy: Cadet Flight Sergeant Richard Timmins, 126 (City of Derby) Squadron The Corps Marching Bands Championship Held at RAF Halton: Solo Bugle: Cadet Gerraghty, 1312 (Southend-on-Sea) Squadron Fanfare: 495 (Sutton Coldfield) Squadron Ensemble: 93 (City of Bath) Squadron Percussion: 93 (City of Bath) Squadron Full Band: 1312 (Southend-on-Sea) Squadron Drum Major: Flight Sergeant Beddow, 1312 (Southend-on-Sea) Squadron Turnout: Joint Winners 1312 (Southend-on-Sea) Squadron and Thames Valley Wing National Annual Drill Championship Best Turnout: 1083 (Uxbridge) Squadron Best Drill NCO: Flight Sergeant Simon Challis, 220 (St Albans) Squadron Best Drill Squad: 220 (St Albans) Squadron Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards Gold: 261 Silver: 697 Bronze: 1,947 The ACO is the largest enabling authority in the world for the DoE Award. This year cadets from 2442 (Westbury-On-Trym) Squadron took 13 gold awards in one year - an outstanding achievement! 31 Pastoral care… 32 Chaplaincy enjoys a high profile within the Air Training Corps (ATC) and plays a valuable role in developing the potential of its young people and providing pastoral care irrespective of religious belief or status. The ATC’s 544 chaplains work with a generation that is so often absent from churches and other places of worship. The opportunity to help youngsters in a vibrant organization like the ATC is open to parish ministers and accredited church workers alike and is often seen as an extension of parish work. Recruitment of padres has been key this year with adverts and editorial in The Church Times and Life and Work and a number of new posts established across the UK. Award Winning Safety… The ACO has been awarded a third, consecutive International Safety Award by the British Safety Council. The award recognises the ACO’s proactive safety management system and is an endorsement of its positive attitude towards health and safety. Health, safety and environment awareness or refresher training has been implemented to squadron level complemented by a newly produced in-house CD. This year more than 600 adult volunteers received a health and safety briefing from HQ Air Cadets health and safety branch staff at the Adult Training Facility at RAF Cranwell, Lincolnshire. National First Aid Award… An air cadet’s First Aid skills have been recognised by the Ambulance Service Institute. Cadet Corporal Aaron Wimsett,17, of 359 (Bexleyheath) Squadron, Air Training Corps was presented with the Institute’s Public Spirit Award for contributing to the resuscitation of an elderly man, and joined distinguished guests at the annual awards ceremony hosted by Jacqui Lait MP at the House of Commons. Aaron was selected by the award’s panel for showing how important a role can be played by the public in helping ensure more people can survive life threatening incidents. Aaron was nominated by a London ambulance crew who were called to an incident involving 84-year-old male. As one of the first on scene Aaron used his First Aid skills learnt in the Air Training Corps to diagnose cardiac arrest and begin CPR. Once the ambulance crew arrived they gave the patient four shocks and successful regained a normal sinus rhythm. New Qualification The First Aid skills learned by Air Cadets have often proved invaluable, but now the ATC has introduced a formal qualification to recognise the work. In conjunction with the St John Ambulance Service, the ATC offers cadets the opportunity to gain the St John Ambulance Young Life Saver Plus Award. Air Cadets have also showed off their skills at the third Air Training Corps National First Aid Competition hosted by the Army Cadet Force at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst. A team of cadets from 561 (Ardwyn, Aberystwyth & District) Squadron, representing No 3 Welsh Wing, emerged as ATC champions. In Scarborough as part of the prestigious civilian Young Grand Prior First Aid Competition, Kent Wing ATC came a respectable third place and the CCF Champions at Sandhurst were Dollar Academy, who also carried off the Combined Services London Cup. One of the first the on scene Aaron used his First Aid skills taught in the Air Training Corps to diagnose cardiac arrest and begin CPR. 33 34 Sponsorship and statistics… Engineering Scholarship The Air League University Bursaries Maritime Air Trust Cadet subscriptions continue to support a wide range of activities and opportunities run by the ACO that are not funded by the Ministry of Defence. The ACO would like to acknowledge and thank the following for their most welcome contributions. Flying Courses Royal Air Force Association Royal Aero Club Donations: HRH The Duke of Edinburgh - donation to the General Purpose Fund (GPF) Mr Michael Marshall - personal donation to the GPF. The Reverend T W Tait BD RAFVR(T) Retd (Corps Chaplain) - personal donation to the GPF The Geoffrey de Havilland Foundation Babcock Defence Services Air League Educational Trust RAF Charitable Trust Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators The Venerable (Air Vice Marshal) B H Lucas CB BA - personal donation to the GPF Facts and Figures RAF Charitable Trust - donation for Air Rifles and associated equipment. Cadets RAF Charitable Trust - donation for Flying Scholarships. ATC enrolled cadets - 30,852 at 922 squadrons and 47 detached flights RAF Charitable Trust - donation for overseas expeditions. CCF (RAF) cadets - 9,351 at 198 sections in public and private schools. Lancaster Product Development Unit - donation to the GPF Total air cadets - 40,203 Eclipse Developments (UK) Ltd - donation to the GPF Volunteer Staff John Menzies PLC - donation to the GPF Volunteer Reserve Officers ........................ 3,352 BAE SYSTEMS - donation to the GPF Warrant Officers and Sergeants ................ 1,504 Band Warrant Officers ..................................... 30 Sponsorship of Air Cadet Magazine Chaplains ........................................................ 544 Civilian Instructors ....................................... 4,505 Marshalls Aerospace Civilian Gliding Instructors .............................. 330 £5,000 sponsorship for FY 2006/2007 Total Volunteer Staff ..................................10,265 VT Aerospace Civilian Committee Members .............. circa 5,000 £5,000 sponsorship for FY 2006/2007 Total strength: cadets and volunteers ...... 55,468 Supersonic at 75: After completing 45 years as a volunteer with the Air Training Corps Mr Don Rhodes of 2497 (Cosford) Squadron was given a flight in a Tornado F3 by former cadet and now RAF pilot Sqn Ldr Brett Archer to mark his 75 th birthday. 35 www.aircadets.org Produced by Media and Communications, HQ Air Cadets Artwork designed and created by Media Services, Royal Air Force College Cranwell