Air Cadet Organisation

Air Cadet Organisation
Name	Air Cadet Organisation
Formation	1941
Type	Youth organisation
Headquarters	RAF Cranwell
Location	United Kingdom
Parent organisation	Royal Air Force
Affiliations	Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)

Air Cadet Organisation. The Air Cadet Organisation is a national youth organisation in the United Kingdom sponsored by the Royal Air Force and the Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom). It is comprised of the Air Training Corps and the Combined Cadet Force (RAF Section), providing aviation-themed training and personal development for young people. Its stated aim is to inspire and develop the next generation through challenging activities, community service, and fostering an interest in aviation and the RAF.

History

The organisation's origins lie in the pre-Second World War formation of the Air Defence Cadet Corps in 1938, championed by Air Commodore John Adrian Chamier. Recognising the need to expand youth engagement and prepare for potential conflict, the Air Ministry formally established the Air Training Corps by Royal Warrant in 1941. During the war, cadets supported the national effort in roles such as aircraft spotting for the Royal Observer Corps and assisting with the Home Guard. In the post-war era, the organisation evolved, integrating the RAF sections of the Combined Cadet Force from schools, and its focus shifted towards youth development, adventure training, and fostering links with the modern Royal Air Force.

Organisation and structure

The organisation is commanded by Commandant Air Cadets, a Royal Air Force officer typically holding the rank of Air Commodore, headquartered at RAF Cranwell. It is divided into six regional wings across the United Kingdom, each further subdivided into squadrons, which are the primary local units. Civilian oversight and support are provided by the Air Cadet Council and the Royal Air Force Air Cadets charity, formerly the Air Training Corps Association. Adult leadership is provided by both uniformed Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Training Branch) officers and civilian instructors.

Activities and training

Cadets undertake a progressive syllabus leading to the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award. Core activities include flying experience in the Grob Tutor at Air Experience Flights, gliding with the Volunteer Gliding Squadrons, and target shooting. Adventurous training encompasses NATO-style fieldcraft, camping, hiking, and expeditions, often conducted at centres like RAF St Mawgan. Cadets also receive instruction in aviation principles, Royal Air Force history, leadership, and drill, and can participate in the annual Air Cadet Organisation Summer Camp at various RAF stations.

Ranks and uniforms

Cadets progress through a rank structure from Cadet to Cadet Warrant Officer, with non-commissioned officer ranks including Cadet Corporal and Cadet Sergeant. Adult officers hold ranks within the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve (Training Branch), such as Pilot Officer and Flight Lieutenant. The standard uniform is similar to that of the Royal Air Force, featuring blue-grey shirts and trousers, a stable belt, and a beret with a distinctive Air Training Corps badge. For field activities, Disruptive Pattern Material combat clothing is worn.

Affiliated organisations

The organisation maintains close ties with the Royal Air Force and its stations, the Royal Air Force Association, and the Royal British Legion. Internationally, it has links with similar cadet forces in the Commonwealth of Nations, such as the Royal Canadian Air Cadets and the Australian Air Force Cadets. It also works with civilian partners like the Civil Aviation Authority and adventure training providers. The Royal Air Force Air Cadets charity is a key affiliated body responsible for fundraising and providing additional resources.

Notable former cadets

Many former cadets have achieved prominence in aviation, military, and public life. In aviation and space, these include Tim Peake, the first British European Space Agency astronaut, and Carol Vorderman, a television presenter and pilot. Military figures include former Chief of the Air Staff (United Kingdom) Air Chief Marshal Sir Michael Graydon. Other notable alumni span entertainment, with figures like Ian McShane and John Barrowman, and politics, such as John Reid, Baron Reid of Cardowan and Alistair Burt.

Category:Youth organisations in the United Kingdom Category:Royal Air Force Category:1941 establishments in the United Kingdom