Training and Education
Developing our members for the future
There are a wide range of activities and experiences available to cadets at all age levels. All Squadrons deliver a formal training programme which is mandated by HQ Air Cadets so that cadets across the organisation have a similar training experience.
The Air Cadet syllabus of training provides:
- World-class opportunities to both young people and volunteers.
- Real value to individuals, cadets and staff, personally, socially, academically, and professionally.
- A progressive programme which is enjoyable, exciting, challenging, stimulating, and achievable.
- Opportunities to gain recognised formal qualifications accredited by the SQA/SCQF, BTEC and other providers.
The matrix below gives an overview of the complete syllabus from First Class level up to Master Air Cadet in the chronological order it should occur as a cadet develops through their cadet career.
Qualifications
2019 will see RAF Air Cadet training syllabus course officially recognised by the SCQF (Scottish Credit & Qualification Framework).
Cadets who complete “First Class” will be awarded SCQF National Level 5 in Scotland (it will however have 4 credit points allocated compared to 24 for main stream course taught in school) and the certificate of award of SQA RAF Air Cadet Aviation Practice Level 1.
Cadet who then complete “Leading Cadet” will be awarded SCQF National Level 6 which is worth 21 credit points and the certificate of award of SQA RAF Air Cadet Aviation Practice Level 2. Although there is a different number of credit points awarded (21 versus 24), this qualification is at the same SCQF Level as a Higher in Scotland.
BTEC’s (Business and Technology Council) Awards are a very popular and widely recognised qualification across the UK. The Air Training Corps training syllabus allows cadets to be rewarded with diplomas in related subjects just for participating and completing our programmes.
- First Diploma in Public Services
- First Diploma in Aviation Studies
- First Diploma in Performing Arts
Duke of Edinburgh Award
470 runs a very active DofE programme where all cadets are registered at Bronze Level when they start with us. We have a great deal of success with the award scheme and it is one of the most popular aspects of our training programme.
The DofE has a positive impact on young people’s lives, in terms of their personal development and employability, and on wider society, from charities gaining active and engaged volunteers to businesses hiring work-ready recruits.
Find out more about the scheme at www.dofe.org
Leadership
The Air Training Corps offers many avenues for young people to develop and leadership is an important part of what we do. From simple team building activities to formal training courses and the grueling Junior Leaders course there are lots of opportunities to develop. If you make a positive contribution at your Squadron you may even be selected for promotion to a cadet non-commissioned officer.
Other Qualifications
There are many other qualifications that can be earned during your time in the ATC, both as an Air Cadet or a Civilian member of staff.
It is now compulsory for all cadets and staff to have an entry level first aid qualification. There has been a number of instances where our members have used their new skills to save a life so this is an extremely important programme.
Vocational qualifications are also available and we offer our volunteer staff the opportunity to develop and seek qualifications which help them professionally and as instructors.