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How do I Join?
Squadrons are commonly made up of a mix of uniformed
and non-uniformed members of staff who dedicate their time
and effort into training the cadets. No previous experience
is required to join a Squadron as a member of staff, and we
can offer on going training and development to further your
participation.
Uniformed staff
The uniformed members of Squadron staff are made up of Officers,
who are commissioned in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve
(Training Branch), and Air Training Corps Senior Non-Commission
Officers.
All uniformed staff undergo a period of
training at Royal Air Force College Cranwell in preparation
for their duties. Before choosing to become a uniformed member
of staff, adult volunteers typically spend 12 months as a
civilian instructor, unless they have previous service in
the RAF or ATC.
The Commanding Officer of each Squadron
can offer an insight into the processes of applying for a
uniformed position and the type of duties usually performed.
Civilian Staff
Civilian Instructors (CIs) offer training and logistical support
to their Squadrons, although they can hold a post traditionally
held by uniformed staff, such as Training Officer or Supply
Officer for example.
As a CI you are not required to attend a
preset amount of parades like uniformed staff. Therefore the
input you offer is at your discretion. Most Squadrons however,
prefer some form of initial agreement so that training can
be scheduled accordingly.
Residential training courses (commonly called
Ground Instructors Courses) are held throughout the year,
offering all staff the chance to specialise in certain subjects
in our training syllabus. Coupled with Squadron and Wing development,
becoming a CI can be just as fulfilling as choosing a uniformed
career.
If you are interested in becoming a CI,
why not contact your nearest Squadron for more information?
Civilian Committee's
All Squadrons are required to have a Civilian Committee. The
Committee are commonly charged with looking after the welfare
of the Squadron, and the finances (eg. Fundraising).
Most committee's are made up of parents
and members of the local community, although there are no
restrictions on who can join. Everyone has something to offer
when joining a committee, whether it be hands-on support or
just a fresh set of ideas.
Committee's usually meet once a month, but
this can vary between Squadrons. If you are interested in
joining the committee, or just want more information, the
Squadron Commanding Officer can put you in touch with the
Chairperson.
What do I get out of it...?
It would be difficult to pinpoint all the
benefits of joining the ATC in any role. Speaking to existing
staff, you will find that the common response is satisfaction
that they are making a difference to the cadets life by offering
them the chance to develop and gain confidence.
You will also gain new skills that you may
find useful in your civilian occupation. Some employers look
favorable on their workforce joining such organisations as
it provides a whole new skills set.
More information...?
If there is something that is not mentioned
here, and you would like to ask, please feel free to email
the Site Administrator,
who will pass on your question to the most appropriate person.
The National ATC website has more information on the overall adult recruitment campaign. You may have seen a poster or heard an advert. For more information, jump to the National ATC website here at www.aircadets.org or call 01400 267 630 for an information pack.
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