CLASSIFICATIONS

In the Air Training Corps, every cadet has a classification. This is totally separate from rank. Rank is awarded purely by merit, while classification is given by academic achievement in RAF related subjects. There are five classifications: 2nd Class, 1st Class, Leading, Senior and Staff. The badge of classification is worn on a cadet's brassard, a cloth band on the right arm.

Second Class Cadet   Once you are enrolled as a cadet you are then called a Second Class Cadet. Some squadrons require you to pass some of the subjects before you are enrolled. As a Second Class Cadet you will be able to take part in most of the activities. First Class Cadet To gain your First Class Classification you will need to pass a set syllabus the subjects are; a knowledge of the Air Training Corps and the Royal Air Force, be able to handle a rifle safely, a knowledge of Airmanship l, Map Reading, Initial Expedition Training, Communications as well as Basic Drill. First Class cadet are eligible to attend UK Camps on RAF Stations and participate in all other activities subject to any of the specified restrictions e.g. age limits. Leading Cadet To gain your Leading Cadet Classification you will have to pass three multiple choice examination, the subject you will have to cover are; Basic Navigation, Principles of Flight and Airmanship ll. once you have gained your Leading Cadet you will be able to take part in more activities such as attending Over seas camps like Germany and Cyprus. You may now be able to apply for a corporals position if their is one available.   Senior Cadet To gain your Senior Cadet Classification you will have to site and pass two multiple choice examination papers from the following subjects: Air Navigation, Pilot Navigation, Propulsion, Airframes, Advanced Radio and Radar, Operational Flying and Satellite Communications. You may now be able to apply for a Sergeants position if their is one available. Staff Cadet To gain your Staff Cadet Part 1 Classification you will have to site and pass two multiple choice examination papers not taken in your senior exam and are from the following subjects: Air Navigation, Pilot Navigation, Propulsion, Airframes, Advanced Radio and Radar, Operational Flying and Satellite Communications. You may now be able to apply for a Flt Sergeants position if their is one available. To gain the Staff cadets Yellow Bride you well have had to pass successfully your Part one above and have had an interview with an independent invidulator who will assess the cadets knowledge of the Air Training Corps, and if the OC thinks you are capable and there is a vacancy you may be put forward to become a Cadet Warrant Officer.  Once you have completed your Part one you will be awarded the full BTEC Certificate in Aviation Studies Project Work   Project work is an essential part of each classification after First Class. At least 25 hours should be completed towards each classification. Projects usually have an aviation theme such as building Model Aircraft etc, but this is not essential. BTec In addiction to the BTEC in Aviation Studies taken in the syllabus it is possible to gain a qualification which takes account of all your Cadet achievements and is recognised outside the Cadet organisation. As a Cadet, you may parade 2 to 4 hours per week plus some weekends and you may attend a camp once a year over a period of three years or more. This equals time spent studying for a vocational qualification. During your training you will complete the training syllabus above and possibly other qualifications such as gliding, flying, etc. This has not been understood by the outside world in terms of its value or achievement.  The BTEC First Diploma in Public Services equates to four GCSEs at Grade A* to C In order to gain the award you will have to complete Six Units including. The Public Services Public Service Fitness Public Service Skills Outdoor Activities and the Public Service Land Navigation with Map and Compass Expedition Skills Each Unit completed successfully and the overall Diploma will be graded as 'Pass, Merit or Distinction'. What do you do as a Cadet? Stay in the cadets beyond your 16th birthday and complete a registration form available from your Squadron Commander or by downloading the form by clicking on the BTEC at the start of this part of the page. Once completed hand it into you Squadron Staff to be registered through Wing HQ. Pass First Class and Leading cadet examinations, Map and Compass, Physical Activity (DofE Physical Section) and Expedition Training. Two adventurous training activities. Give a five minute presentation. Pass a Wing NCO Course - leadership, teamwork and communications. Complete Unit 1 Project (to be completed in Feb/Mar). Answer some questions on Teamwork and Nutrition Unit 1 Project consists of roles and responsibilities of Public Service (RAF and one other e.g. Army), Jobs within the Public Service (RAF). Application and Selection Process (RAF) and Entry Requirements and Career Development (RAF). While the work required to be completed for gaining the Diploma sounds a lot most of it you may have already done or will do through your normal Air Cadet activities so any additional work will be worth the reward of the equivalent 4 GCSEs at Grade A* to C the First Diploma brings.