Training
Training in the RAFAC takes many forms and covers a wide range of topics including basic RAFAC & RAF knowledge, aviation, fieldcraft and first aid. This is just a short list - a breakdown of all the subjects available to cadets would be a huge list. To make it easier for people to know how many subjects a cadet has covered, the subjects are grouped into courses. Upon successful completion of a course, the cadet is awarded the associated badge/lanyard/certificate. In the case of badges and lanyards the cadet may wear these on their uniform to show their progress through the training syllabus. Depending on how far a cadet progresses through the training syllabus, they may also qualify for one or more BTEC certificates.
Cadet Classifications
Not every cadet can expect to be promoted, but all cadets can work their way through the training syllabus and attain various levels of cadet classification.
Junior Cadet / Second Class Cadet
Cadets are classified as Junior Cadets during their probationary period. Once formally enrolled on the squadron they are known as Second Class Cadets. No badge is awarded for these two classifications but a certificate of enrolment will be awarded noting the advancement from Junior Cadet to Second Class Cadet.
First Class Cadet
To qualify as a First Class Cadet, cadets must complete training in 7 mandatory subjects and attain a basic standard of foot drill. This is designed to give cadets a good level of general knowledge about the RAFAC and the RAF. It also introduces the fundamental principles and skills cadets will need during their time as an Air Cadet.
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The subject studied at First Class Level are:
There are no formal examinations at this level, however instructors will verbally check understanding during training sessions. Cadets deemed to have successfully completed the syllabus will be awarded the First Class Badge for their brassard and a certificate of training.
- The Air Training Corps.
- The Royal Air Force.
- History of Flight.
- Basic Principles of Airmanship.
- Map Reading.
- Initial Expedition Training.
- Basic Radio Communication.
- Basic Foot Drill.
There are no formal examinations at this level, however instructors will verbally check understanding during training sessions. Cadets deemed to have successfully completed the syllabus will be awarded the First Class Badge for their brassard and a certificate of training.
Leading Cadet
To qualify as a Leading Cadet, cadets must undertake further training in 3 key subjects. The training at Leading level is more in-depth than at First Class and is formally assessed by multiple choice examinations online using the Air Cadet Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). These examinations will culminate in a graded pass for the cadet who can be awarded a Pass, Credit or Distinction.
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The subjects studied at Leading level are:
Cadets successfully passing the Leading Cadet examinations are awarded the Leading Cadet Badge for their brassard and a certificate of training. Achievement of the Leading Cadet classification is a significant milestone for a cadet as it is usually a prerequisite for promotion to Cadet Corporal and many of the more exotic Corps courses.
- Principles of Flight
- Airmanship Knowledge
- Basic Navigation (Map & Compass)
Cadets successfully passing the Leading Cadet examinations are awarded the Leading Cadet Badge for their brassard and a certificate of training. Achievement of the Leading Cadet classification is a significant milestone for a cadet as it is usually a prerequisite for promotion to Cadet Corporal and many of the more exotic Corps courses.
Senior Cadet
To qualify as a Senior Cadet, cadets must study three subjects from the list below. The training at Senior level is more in-depth than at Leading but is formally assessed in the same manner using the VLE. Performance in the examinations will result in a graded pass for the cadet who can be awarded a Pass, Credit or Distinction.
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The subjects available to study at Senior level are:
Cadets successfully passing the Senior Cadet examinations are awarded the Senior Cadet Badge for their brassard and a certificate of training. Achievement of the Senior Cadet classification is usually a prerequisite for promotion to a Cadet Sergeant and is also the desired classification for Flight Staff Cadets on Volunteer Gliding Squadrons.
- Airframes
- Aircraft Handling
- Air Navigation
- Air Power
- Avionics
- Jet Engine Propulsion
- Military Aircraft Systems
- Pilot Navigation
- Piston Engine Propulsion
- Rocketry Propulsion
- Satellite and Data Communications
Cadets successfully passing the Senior Cadet examinations are awarded the Senior Cadet Badge for their brassard and a certificate of training. Achievement of the Senior Cadet classification is usually a prerequisite for promotion to a Cadet Sergeant and is also the desired classification for Flight Staff Cadets on Volunteer Gliding Squadrons.
Master Air Cadet
To qualify as a Master Air Cadet (MAC), cadets must study a further three subjects from the list above. This aims to broaden cadets' knowledge in a wide range of aerospace topics. Performance in the examinations will result in a graded pass for the cadet who can be awarded a Pass, Credit or Distinction. A cadet must be aged 16+ to be awarded the Master Air Cadet Badge.
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Successful completion of the MAC syllabus represents the end of a cadets academic training in the RAFAC. Cadets are awarded the Master Air Cadet Badge for their brassard and a certificate of training. Cadets also receive a BTEC Certificate in Aviation Studies. This is a nationally recognised qualification equivalent to 2 GCSE's/National 4's. Achievement of the MAC classification is a pre-requisite for certain courses and for promotion to Cadet Warrant Officer.
Further Training
Once a cadet has successfully qualified as a Master Air Cadet, they become eligible for further specialist training. Completion of these training courses is signified by a coloured lanyard worn over the cadets left shoulder. Only one lanyard may be worn, so if a cadet qualifies for more than one, they must display the senior qualification only.
Instructor Cadet
Qualified Master Air Cadets can elect to undertake further training and complete the Cadet Methods Of Instruction (MOI) course. The MOI course teaches cadets how to plan and deliver a lesson and culminates with the cadets planning and delivering an assessed lecture presentation on a subject of their choice.
Cadets successfully completing this course are awarded the yellow Instructor Cadet lanyard and are expected to deliver training on the Squadron. This may involve delivering elements of the classification syllabus to younger Cadets or providing instruction in a specialist area such as adventure training. |
Qualified Aerospace Instructor Cadet (QAIC)
Qualified Master Air Cadets can also apply for a place on the prestigious Qualified Aerospace Instructor Cadet course.
The course is run over several months, with one training weekend per month between September and April and coursework to be completed at home via the QAIC Sharepoint Server. The course culminates with a week-long residential assessment. The course is very academically demanding and requires a huge level of commitment as well as organisational skills to juggle course work with school or University studies. Cadet ranks are set aside during the programme and each student is given a call-sign or nickname. Standard uniform for the course is a flight suit with unique course patches. The QAI Course covers a wide range of subjects including:
The purpose of the course is to prepare instructors to run aerospace courses on the Squadron and the various Regional Activity Centres (RAC's) across the country. |
Air Cadet Junior Leaders Course (ACJLC)
Suitably qualified cadets may also apply for a place on the demanding Air Cadet Junior Leaders Course. To be eligible for selection a cadet must:
The ACJLC consists of nine weekend training camps and culminates with a week long assessment camp. A large proportion of the training is conducted in the field, using military skills and scenarios. It runs between September and April each year and provides training in leadership, management and life skills for Cadet SNCOs aged 17+. Successful cadets are awarded the maroon Junior Leaders lanyard and a special DZ Flash for their DPM / MTP Uniform. They also receive the Institute of Leadership and Management Level 2 Certificate in Team Leading. |
BTEC
As well as the above classifications and lanyards, Cadets can be awarded a number of nationally recognised qualifications as shown below. These qualifications look great on a CV when applying for a job or apprenticeship or a place at college or university.
BTEC Certificate in Aviation Studies (equivalent to 2 GCSEs, A-C grades)
After achieving the Master Air Cadet classification, cadets are automatically entitled to this qualification without any further work. This qualification is free for cadets.
BTEC Award in Aviation Studies (equivalent to 1 GCSE, A-C grade)
If a cadet decides to leave the ATC before completing the MAC syllabus they are still eligible for a BTEC Award once they've completed their First Class and Leading Cadet training. However, there is a registration fee for this award.
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. To improve your life skills the syllabus includes professional CV preparation, interview techniques, communication, first aid, adventure training, health and nutrition. Most of the content is covered by activities cadets do normally and an additional project and workbook is to be completed. Cadets are eligible for this BTEC if they are between 16 and 19 years old.
BTEC First Diploma in Music (equivalent to 4 GCSEs, A-C grades)
This course helps cadets develop a basic understanding of music as a profession and combines both technical skills with practical elements and research. By the time cadets finish, they'll have demonstrated an understanding of all aspects of performance, including solo and ensemble work and how to manage rehearsals. Cadets also learn how to market, budget, advertise, programme and publicise a music event. Cadets 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.
Institute of Leadership and Management Certificate in Team Leading - Level 2
This course mixes theory and practical elements with an emphasis on leadership, teamwork and communications and is a cadets first step to being a great manager or leader in the future. To be eligible for this award Cadets must successfully complete the ACO Junior Leaders Course.
BTEC Certificate in Aviation Studies (equivalent to 2 GCSEs, A-C grades)
After achieving the Master Air Cadet classification, cadets are automatically entitled to this qualification without any further work. This qualification is free for cadets.
BTEC Award in Aviation Studies (equivalent to 1 GCSE, A-C grade)
If a cadet decides to leave the ATC before completing the MAC syllabus they are still eligible for a BTEC Award once they've completed their First Class and Leading Cadet training. However, there is a registration fee for this award.
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. To improve your life skills the syllabus includes professional CV preparation, interview techniques, communication, first aid, adventure training, health and nutrition. Most of the content is covered by activities cadets do normally and an additional project and workbook is to be completed. Cadets are eligible for this BTEC if they are between 16 and 19 years old.
BTEC First Diploma in Music (equivalent to 4 GCSEs, A-C grades)
This course helps cadets develop a basic understanding of music as a profession and combines both technical skills with practical elements and research. By the time cadets finish, they'll have demonstrated an understanding of all aspects of performance, including solo and ensemble work and how to manage rehearsals. Cadets also learn how to market, budget, advertise, programme and publicise a music event. Cadets 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.
Institute of Leadership and Management Certificate in Team Leading - Level 2
This course mixes theory and practical elements with an emphasis on leadership, teamwork and communications and is a cadets first step to being a great manager or leader in the future. To be eligible for this award Cadets must successfully complete the ACO Junior Leaders Course.