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.”
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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.
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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.
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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…
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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!
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Pastoral care…
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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.
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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.
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