Cadet membership is open to young people, both male and female, between 12 and 20 years old who accept the challenge. We will accept cadets from the age of 12 providing they have started year 8 at school. The maximum age for new members is 16 yrs old (up until your 17th Birthday).
The Squadron holds Open Evenings throughout the year, and if you’re thinking of joining it’s a great opportunity to find out more about the Squadron and enrol on that intake.
Get your Edge on Life
What’s in it for you?
Aside from flying, sports, target shooting, adventure training and great fun? You’ll soon find that being an air cadet is its own reward – you constantly see the benefits of your own efforts, building on your achievements and earning BTECs and DoE Awards. You’ll be expected to take part in as many of the activities we run as possible, but with what’s on offer you won’t need much persuading!
We have high standards to maintain as we are a ‘military’ youth organisation and you’ll naturally take pride in your uniform (supplied by the Squadron) and appearance. You’ll be well mannered and self-disciplined. You’ll be joining an organisation of which you’ll be very proud.
What are you waiting for!
The Squadron parades on a Monday and Thursday night, from 1900 to 2145. Whilst our training programme does mean we are unable to accept visits during normal parade nights at the moment, we hold regular Open Evenings throughout the year. You can find out more about our next Open Evening here.
We also attend community events around the local area, so if you spot us, feel free to come and speak to some of our staff the find out more!
Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of activities do the air cadets do?
We get to do a huge variety of activities such as flying, gliding, target shooting, adventure training, sports, camps, drill, academic studies and lots of other things. There’s never a dull moment.
How old must I be to join?
You can join when you’re 12 and currently in Year 8 at school, we will only accept cadets once they have begun this year at school, usually in September. You can remain a cadet until you’re 20. You can however only become a cadet between the ages of 12 and 17 (not inclusive), you must join before your 17th birthday.
How many times a week does the Squadron meet?
We meet twice a week, Monday and Thursday’s but you’ll usually find activities running on weekends as well which you can take part in.
How long does an Air Cadet session last as I have homework and other commitments?
Each parade lasts around two and a half hours, usually from seven to quarter to ten in the evening. This gives you plenty of time to complete homework and to deal with other commitments.
Is there a good balance between the exciting activities and more serious disciplined activities?
Yes, there are lots of opportunities to do fun activities as well as the more serious side of things, but the focus is always on enjoying yourself while improving your skills.
Is it easy to get on with people and make new friends?
Yes! Everyone is very friendly and you always feel welcome. As we’re all cadets we have loads in common.
What sort of expeditions can be done through the Air Cadets?
There are a huge amount of expedition opportunities, some overseas, but the most well known and popular option is the Duke of Edinburgh Award which entails overnight expeditions. They’re great fun. But there are lots of other expeditions that pop up regularly.
How much does it cost?
It only costs £8 a month total, which is great value for money considering what you get out of it. The Squadron asks for subscription payments to be made from the start of the first full month you attend. So join in the middle of September, you’ll need to pay for October onwards.
Do I have to buy my own uniform? If so, does it cost a lot?
No, the uniform is free but you have to look after it, and it does remain property of the Squadron so needs returning if you ever leave. You may have to buy your own shoes & boots though!
How often do you get to go flying?
We try and offer as much flying as possible, ideally one slot per cadet every year. Aircraft availability and the weather can be a factor in our flying slots though. However as some cadets focus on other activities sometimes you can fly much more frequently, it’s fantastic!
What about disabled people – can they join?
Absolutely! If you’re disabled you are very welcome provided your handicap doesn’t prevent you from taking part in a reasonable number of activities, or is likely to cause you safety problems. Your local squadron staff will be happy to speak to you about this.