Trent Wing has been named winner of the Sir Roger Austin Sword Competition for 2025/26, securing the prestigious award for the second year in a row.
The competition recognises the Wing with the highest percentage of Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards achieved in relation to its cadet numbers. Trent Wing’s latest success reflects another exceptional year of commitment from cadets and volunteers, and underlines the strength of Duke of Edinburgh’s Award delivery across the Wing.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award challenges cadets to develop through volunteering, physical activity, skills development and expedition training. Achieving an Award at Bronze, Silver or Gold level requires determination, resilience and sustained effort, while also helping young people build confidence, leadership and valuable life skills.
Trent Wing’s victory follows its previous win in the 2024/25 competition, when the Wing was also recognised for the efficiency and impact of its DofE programme. During 2025/26, Trent Wing achieved 225 DofE Awards across its 27 squadrons, including 137 Bronze, 72 Silver and 16 Gold Awards.
Congratulations go to all Trent Wing cadets who have completed their Awards, and to the volunteers whose time, expertise and encouragement make these achievements possible. From planning training programmes and supporting expeditions to mentoring cadets through each section of the Award, their contribution is central to the Wing’s continued success.
The Sir Roger Austin Sword will be presented at the RAF Air Cadets Honours and Awards Ceremony in September.
Sir Roger Austin Sword Competition 2025/26 Results
The top three Wings in this year’s competition are:
1st: Trent Wing
2nd: No 3 Welsh Wing
3rd: Merseyside Wing