Join as a volunteer...
Over 20? Seeking a new challenge? Would you like to develop skills, leadership qualities and gain qualifications too?
At Air Cadets, we constantly assess our past achievements, implement changes to meet the challenges of today and make plans for the future. And a huge part of that planning is you. As the backbone of our organisation we're always on the look out for high-calibre individuals to become volunteers, helping to run the activities that play such an important role in the lives of our young members.
All kinds of people make up our volunteer staff, coming from a range of backgrounds and interests. Obviously if you have direct experience of working with young people, or any relevant skills such as flying or gliding, you would be particularly welcome. These aren't essential though, as we will train and support you at every stage.
That said, you'll have some personal qualities that are essential, such as patience, maturity and responsibility along with an understanding of young people and their needs. You needn't be an athlete, but a good level of physical fitness also helps to ensure you can keep up with the cadets!
Civilian Instructor
You will start your journey as a Civilian Instructor (CI)'s. CI's are the backbone of the RAFAC; they are an integral part of any Squadron, and lots of activities rely on their support. Although they do not wear a service uniform, they are expected to uphold a similar dress standard by dressing smartly and appropriately for the activity. In order to join, message the Squadron Commander, who will support you through the application process and your training. The vast majority of RAFAC Officers and SNCO's will have spent time as a CI before 'going into uniform'.
Want to take on more responsibility?
We rely on our volunteers to help us operate as effectively as possible. Being well organised is an obvious must, ideally with good managerial and administrative skills, and an ability to listen to problems and deal with them tactfully and appropriately.
Really show your skills in these areas and you could end up taking on more responsibility and moving up through the ranks as an officer or senior non-commissioned officer (SNCO).
If you decided that you would like to go into uniform, the Squadron Commander will support you through the application process.
SNCO
You may decide that you want to spend as much time with the cadets as possible rather than behind the scenes in the office. If that is the case, then going down the SNCO route is for you. SNCO are responsible for the drill and discipline on the squadron, ensuring that the Squadron Commander's standards are met. SNCO's are the vital link between the cadets and the officers.
Officers
You may decide that you want to want to take on a more managerial role, focusing on ensuring that the squadron continues to function behind the scenes. Officers play a vital role in this, ensuring that the squadron's paperwork is up to date and the activities the cadet do are safe, fun and organised. While officers spend more time in the office, they do still get out and about instructing the cadets on a wide variety of activities.