Training and Education

Flt Sgt Eardley

Classification Training

Within the ATC there is a cadet classification system, which all cadets have the opportunity to progress in. The classification system is entirely seperate from the rank system. There are six classifications of cadet which are progressed in order of: Junior Cadet, First Class Cadet, Leading Cadet, Senior Cadet, Master Air Cadet, Instructor Cadet.

Details of each classification are given below:

Cadet on probation

Cadets are on probation during the early stages of cadet life. During the probation period, cadets learn basic drill and all about the history of the atc. They develop their discipline, and prepare for the enrolment ceremony. Once enrolled, the cadet becomes a full member of the squadron, approved by the Commanding Officer.

Second Class Cadet

Once a cadet is enrolled, they are then a second class cadet. They are a full member of the squadron now, and can continue their studies to achieve the first class classification badge.

First Class Cadet

At 1119 Squadron, cadets undergoing First Class training are members of the Junior Cadet Training Flight. At First Class level, cadets are taught in the following subjects: * Airmanship I * History of Flight * Map Reading * Initial Expedition Training * The Rifle

Leading Cadet

After passing their First Class Cadet examinations, cadets move on to preparing for the Leading examinations, in the following subjects: * Airmanship II * Principles of Flight * Basic Navigation

Senior Cadet

The next classification is Senior cadet, and for this classification, only two subjects are taught and examined: * Air Navigation * Aircraft Handling

Master Air Cadet

Following recent changes to the classification and syllabus structure, the Master Air Cadet classification replaces the previous 'Staff I' classification. In order to obtain this classification, cadets must be 16 years old and pass examinations in the following two subjects: * Operational Flying * Airframes

Instructor Cadet

The final classification is Instructor Cadet, for which no written examinations need be sat. In order to obtain the yellow lanyard, cadets must sit an interview with the Sector Commander in addition to being assessed teaching a lesson. In addition, cadets should attend a Methods of Instruction course, to enable them to properly teach lessons. Upon completing the Instructor Cadet classification, cadets are expected to be able to teach lessons for the other classifications, having developed the instructional and communication skills to be able to do so. In addition, Instructor Cadets are eligible to receive a BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Aviation Studies, which is equivalent to 2 GCSEs at grade A* - C.

BTEC

All cadets in the Air training Corps are given the opportunity to complete a BTEC in Aviation Studies, which is equivalent to 2 GCSEï¿½s (Grade A*-C). This is offered free of charge to all air cadets, and is achieved by the completing classification training syllabus.

Aswell as the BTEC in aviation studies, all cadets over the age of 16 will be given the opportunity to complete a BTEC in public services, and a BTEC in music

BTEC First Diploma in Public Services (equivalent to 4 GCSEs, A-C grades)

This internationally respected qualification mixes theory and practical elements with an emphasis on leadership, teamwork, communications, problem solving and fitness. Improving your life skills, the syllabus includes professional CV preparation, interviewing techniques, communication, first aid, adventure training, health and nutrition. Most of the content is covered by activities you'll be doing normally, and you also complete an additional project and workbook. You're eligible for this BTEC if you are between 16 and 19 years old.

BTEC First Diploma in Music (equivalent to 4 GCSEs, A-C grades)

This course helps you develop a basic understanding of music as a profession, and combines both technical skills with practical elements and research. By the time you finish, you'll have demonstrated an understanding of all aspects of performance, including solo and ensemble work and how to manage rehearsals. You will also learn how to market, budget, advertise, programme and publicise a music event. You'll be expected to be able to play a musical instrument prior to enrolling on the course, but do not have to be able to read music. This award is also free if you're 16-19 years old.

First Aid

All cadets are offered the chance to complete the Youth First Aid Award, which is awarded in conjunction with St.Johnï¿½s Ambulance. This is a 12 hour course which includes teaching in the areas of:

Asthma
Bites and stings
Bleeding (minor)
Bleeding and shock
Bone, muscle and joint injuries
Burns and scalds
Chest pains
Choking
Communication and casualty care
Coping in an emergency
Electric shock
Fainting
First aid kit
Foreign objects
Head injuries
Heat exhaustion
Hypothermia
Low blood sugar
Poisons
Primary survey
Recovery position
Resuscitation (adult)
Seizures
Severe allergic reaction
Spinal injury

Cadets over the age of 16 can also complete an activity first aid course, or a first aid at work qualification.

National Navigation Award

The National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) is a personal performance, non-competitive, incentive scheme for all ages to learn navigation skills and gain confidence to get out and enjoy the countryside.

The levels of the award

All NNAS courses include advice and information about relevant safety and access issues when walking in the countryside. In addition, an understanding of relevant conservation and environmental issues and awareness of our impacts all form part of each course.

Bronze NNAS Award ï¿½ Navigation in the countryside using paths tracks and other linear features, basic map interpretation and compass work is included.

Silver NNAS Award ï¿½ Navigation in the countryside using skills acquired at bronze level and adding skills required to navigate to features and places some distance from paths and tracks, accurate compass work is required and an ability to use appropriate navigational techniques to go across country in some cases, eg. choosing an appropriate attack point.

Gold NNAS Award ï¿½ Navigation in the countryside using skills of the first two levels, but adding techniques and skills for dealing with complex contour features large and small. The Gold Award is delivered as separate Gold Award Training and Gold Award Assessment courses

Health and Safety

All cadets are given the opportunity to complete the cadet entry level award in health and safety.