What did you do last weekend?
Did you learn how to fly an aeroplane? Learn how not to be seen on a fieldcraft exercise? Did you go on an expedition with your friends as part of your Duke of Edinburgh Award?
If you're not an Air Cadet, chances are you didn't do one of these things.
Pictured - 148 (Barnsley) Squadron
If you are aged 13 to 16 years 9 months old and the thought of doing some or all of the above sounds exciting to you why not join the Air Training Corps? As well as learning how aircraft fly you will also visit RAF stations, fly in many different aircraft and even take control yourself if you like.
If the great outdoors is more your thing you will have the opportunity to take part in Adventure Training and Fieldcraft. You will learn how not to be seen as well as the ability to live in the outdoors for a period of time. As a cadet you will attend many different types of camps, from staying on RAF stations and Army camps to living on board a ship for a week with the Navy, you will get to experience a little bit of what life in the Armed Forces is like.
Cadets of 148 (Barnsley) Squadron are also lucky in that we have our own two-man hovercraft. The hovercraft was built and is now flown by the cadets. Used both as a recruitment tool and also as a training aid for displays the hovercraft is great fun and also safe due to the comprehensive risk assessments that are completed for when the hovercraft is flown.
Whilst linked to the Royal Air Force the Air Training Corps does not directly recruit for the RAF even though many cadets do go on to join. Though, ex-cadets have gone on to become pilots on fast jets and helicopters, marines and communications specialists to name but a few.
The ATC not only provides you with the opportunity to take part in adventure but also gives you the skills for later life including qualifications, experience and knowledge. If you are interested in finding out more about what we have to offer why not browse these pages or contact the Squadron for more information.
