There are countless exclusive and valuable opportunities available to air cadets, at 56 (Woolwich) Squadron, we are proud to be able to offer a great portion of those and allow our members to grow as individuals therefore.
Discipline is at the core of what we do, with drill activities and many formal parades such as Remembrance Day and many other occasions like the Lord Mayors Show. There are plenty of great opporutnities to make yourself seen and to march out representing a good cause, here at 56.
We also have a well known band, with over half of the squadron taking an active role in learning and playing new music to provide entertainment and a ceremonial role at big events. Band competitions are often common and we are proud to have one of the biggest bands in London Wing ATC. |
As a cadet, adventure activities and fieldcraft are also common activities that take place. Ranging from an inter squadron competition (Inness Sword) that assesses all aspects of cadet competence and pushes teams to the limit to squadron combat exercises. Our cadets also have a unique opportunity to take part in the gruelling four day Nijmegen marches, which attract cadets from all around the UK and allow our cadets to be awarded with a set of military medals upon its completion.
Other than that, many other courses and events are available to cadets of varying age and experience, allowing each and every cadet the chance to experience leadership and adventure in a rough environment. |
Many qualifications and awards are also available to cadets and at 56, we have many great staff willing to instruct cadets through courses like St John 1st Aid and the Duke of Edinburgh Awards - as well as countless others which are organised by cadets and staff of the squadron. BTECs are also available, with Aviation Studies being the most commonly sought for and most readily available for a cadet to take on. Public Services and many others are also available qualifications which can set a cadet up for the future - giving them the extras that many others wont have.
Presentations and public events are also very common, with cadets being eligible for many recognitions including the Jack Petchey Award. |
Flying and gliding is at the core of the Air Training Corps, with opportunities available to every cadet throughout their time at the squadron. Scholarships are also available, allowing cadets to qualify for their PPL and become qualified pilots (sometimes before they can drive).
These opportunities are more common at annual camps, with flights in many aircrafts ranging from the Grob Tutor to the Sea King being on the cadet programme. Flight simulation is even more widely available, with two flight sims based at our squadron for our cadets to use and learn on. |