FAQ
FAQRoss-on-Wye
FAQ FAQ
Need to ask a question? email us or use the feedback form
You can download our introduction to 1002 (Ross-on-Wye) Squadron here
(Adobe Acrobat file)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What is the Air Training Corps?
The Air Training Corps has over 37,000 cadet members throughout the UK, providing an incredible range of activities and opportunities. If you're aged 13-18 and interested in finding out just what you can achieve, joining the Air Cadets could be the best thing you ever did!
The Air Cadet Organisation has its headquarters at RAF Cranwell and is divided into six regions. Each region is further divided into Wings which are similar to Counties. A wing is made up of Squadrons.
1002 Squadron at Ross-on-Wye is proud to be part of the UK's finest youth organisation!
Q: How much of my time will I have to give?
A: 1002 Squadron meets two evenings each week in Ross-on-Wye – the sessions are from 7.00 to 9.30 pm on Mondays and Fridays. You could just attend these sessions if you want. But the fun lies in all the other activities offered. There are camps and courses, and opportunities to fly gliders and planes, and to visit RAF bases and other centres. Adventure training includes walking, climbing, canoeing and activities suggested by members. We also organise events such as skittles, bowling, BBQ's and parties. So there’s no limit (as long as you don’t let it interfere with your schoolwork!)
Q: How much will it cost?
A: The Squadron meets twice a week, and the charge is £1 per week. Activities such as flying are free of charge, and others are subsidised by Squadron fundraising or sponsors. Charges are made for camps and special events to cover costs, which might typically be about £30 for a week's camp in the UK, including travel, food, accommodation and activities.
Uniforms are provided free of charge; cadets are responsible for the safe-keeping of any items issued to them, and for any personal items they wish to use during activities.
Q: What about trips overseas?
Air Cadets have opportunities to experience other countries and cultures. Since the air cadet exchange began in 1946, thousands of young people have participated. The International Air Cadet Exchange Association (IACEA) organises many exchange visits. In the past year 496 cadets from 17 nations made international visits. At the IACEA's annual conference in Ankara, Turkey, the president Alfred Schmitzberger of Austria said: "This program seeks to foster international understanding, goodwill and friendship among young people who have an interest in aviation. IACEA continues to grow and attract participants from around the world every year.”
IACEA is composed of cooperating national air organizations from member nations including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States. For more information on international cadet exchange, visit the IACEA Web site at www.iacea.com.
Q: Is there any compulsion to join the RAF?
A: There is no compulsion on behalf of any cadet to join the Armed Forces. The ATC encourages an interest in aviation and the RAF, and some cadets decide upon a career in the Forces. The experience gained as an air cadet will be useful in their future lives and careers, whatever they choose to do. But the ATC is there to foster a spirit of adventure and to develop self-confidence, leadership qualities, friendships and good citizenship.
Q: What about opportunities for females in the Corps?
A: Female cadets are fully integrated into the ATC and share exactly the same opportunities and responsibilities as male cadets.
Q: Is the Corps committed to equal opportunities?
A: The Corps is fully committed to equal opportunities and welcomes UK citizens of any race or religion.
Q: How physically fit do I have to be?
A: If you are naturally sporty you can go on to represent the squadron, wing, corps and even the UK. Those who are not so athletic will not be forced into any activity. But you might find you want to have a go at something you never dreamed of doing before joining the ATC!
Q: I am over 21. Can I help?
A: Adult volunteers are extremely useful to the squadron. They can either become Civilian Instructors and help in the day to day operation of the squadron or they can join the Civilian Committee which meets monthly to help the staff with funding requirements and other vital issues. Volunteers can’t be paid, but they will be reimbursed for travel and other agreed costs.
More questions?
email us, use the feedback form, or try out the Squadron File on the national website!
http://www.aircadets.org/sqnfile.html
Squadron finder
http://www.aircadets.org/map_test.htm
