Classification Training
In the Air Cadet Organization every cadet has the oppertunity to progress through an academic training syllybus. They will learn all about subjects related to aviation and the Royal Air Force covering a variety of subjects including, Airmanship, the Principles of Flight and even advanced issues such as Satellite Communications and Propulsion. There are four stages that can be achieved, they are:
First Class - The First Class Syllybus covers all the basic information about the ATC and RAF and a variety of interesting subjects; these give new cadets the foundations they need to go on to a successfull career in the Air Cadets.
Leading - Cadets study three subjects at this level; Airmanship II, Basic Navigation and Principles of Flight. To achieve Leading Cadet status the cadets sit an exam on each f the above subjects. Each subject has 25 questions to answer.
Senior - Just like Leading there is an exam to pass senior, however, only two subjects are studied this time. Most commonly the cadets choose their favourite two subjects from Leading and take them forward to Senior as it allows for a natural progression and makes the studying easier to manage as they already have a knowledge of the subject. Subjects to choose from are: Air Navigation, Propulsion or Advanced Radio & Radar.
Staff (Part 1) - The Staff Cadet exam comes in two parts, both taken seperatley from one another. Staff Part 1 is a written exam in two of the following subjects:Airframes, Operational Flying or Satellite Communications.
Staff (Part 2) - Part 2 consists of an interview conducted by a Wing Staff Officer. The cadet will study the higher organization of the Air Cadets and know first hand the squadron administrative procedures. Also they will become familiar with 'who's who?' within the Wing, Region and Corps. They will be asked a serious of questions on these areas, normally around 8 to 10 questions. The final part of the Staff Cadet Exam assess's the cadets oral presenation ability. They are required to give a ten minute presentation on a subject of their choice. Once passed BOTH parts the coveted Staff Cadet Lanyard is awarded.
Its a real sense of achievement to complete all the academic syllybus and be awarded the lanyard and all cadets take a great pride in wearing it on their uniforms. Staff cadets then go on to assist the staff with teaching the syllybus to the younger cadets who are at various levels of their training. A further 24 hours of project work must be completed in order to pass at each level of training.