The skies above Little Rissington were alive with activity this week as 612 Volunteer Gliding Squadron (VGS) successfully delivered its first residential Cadet Gliding Scholarship course since the unit resumed operations in 2024.
Over the week-long course, six Air Cadets from across the UK immersed themselves in the challenge of gliding training. Each cadet completed the syllabus, with three achieving their first solo flight and earning the coveted Silver Gliding Wings, while the remaining three were awarded their Bronze Wings in recognition of their progress and achievements in completing their scholarships.
The week was an impressive display of teamwork and commitment, with cadets and volunteers completing 448 launches and over 44 hours of gliding.
Cadet Warrent Officer James Nicholas said
“I thoroughly enjoyed my gliding scholarship at 612VGS. The facilities were amazing, and the staff were always ready to give advice. I was amazed at the amount of gliding we were able to complete and highly recommend cadets apply for gliding scholarships.”
The students and volunteers received a visit from Air Commodore Woods, Air Officer Wales, accompanied by Honorary Air Commodore Sujatha Thaladi, who came to see the gliding operations in action. During their visit, Air Cdre Woods presented Flight Sergeant Clayden and Flying Officer Avann with their King’s Coronation Medals. Together, they also had the honour of presenting two Flight Staff Cadets with their newly earned Silver Wings following their solo flights earlier in the week.
Reflecting on the achievement, Squadron Leader Peter Dempsey, Officer Commanding 612 VGS, said:
“This course marks a huge milestone for 612 VGS. To see cadets not only learning to glide but also going solo in such a short space of time is a testament to their dedication and enthusiasm. None of this would be possible without the tireless commitment of our volunteers and Flight Staff Cadets, who put in countless hours to make the experience both safe and rewarding. It was fantastic to see the Squadron back delivering week long, residential scholarships and inspiring the next generation of aviators.”
The success of the course is a significant step forward in expanding opportunities for cadets to experience the thrill of flight and achieve recognised qualifications in aviation.
