Why do I need to register?
Upon joining the squadron, all new recruits will undertake 'basic training' in a variety of classroom subjects (like History of the RAF/Air Cadets, Map Reading and Principles of Flight) as well as things like drill and uniform care. Unfortunately we do not have sufficient resources to deliver this to new starters on an ad-hoc basis, so instead we have regular intakes throughout the year where we can form a full class of new recruits and deliver the training more efficiently and effectively. This also ensures that new starters are not on their own as they go through this training, they will meet new friends who are also just starting out.
By completing this form and providing some basic details, we can add you to our waiting list and keep you informed of the next intake event.
What is an intake event?
An intake event is where we invite potential recruits and their parents to the squadron (usually on a weekday evening) for an informal presentation so we can provide you with a lot more detail about what we do, what we expect from you and what you can expect from the organisation, as well as how things like uniform/subs work and how parents can get involved and support us. We can answer any questions you may have, plus you will get to meet some of our cadets whilst they demonstrate a selection of the activities we offer.
After this, if you decide the RAF Air Cadets is still right for you, simply complete and return the paperwork you will be given, then turn up on the specified start date (usually two weeks after the intake event) for your first parade evening.
When is the next intake event?
We aim to have three or four intakes per year, but the capacity of our squadron premises and the number of instructors we have dictates the upper limit of cadets we can have at any given time. Therefore we can only have intakes when we are physically able to accommodate the numbers that are likely to join.
How are my details used/stored?
All data provided by you below is saved within a secure MOD system to which only select members of squadron staff have access. This system is fully compliant with current MOD and RAFAC GDPR policy. These details are used solely to show us how many potential recruits are waiting to join, and allows us to invite you personally to the next intake event. Once you have attended this event the details you've provided are removed from the system, whether you subsequently join or not.
What happens next?
Upon completion of the below you will get an email to confirm we have received your entry. You will then receive a further email within 1-2 weeks to advise whether we have any intake events in the immediate future, and if not then approximately when the next one will be.
