Life as an air cadet is full of adventure and life enhancing experiences. When you join the RAF Air Cadets you will have the opportunity to try a range of exciting challenges.
Our engaging training programme and close relationships with the Royal Air Force and other partners will help you reach your full potential. You will be able to gain and improve key life skills such as confidence, communication, physical and mental wellbeing, teamwork and leadership.
Activities
Of course, RAF Air Cadets is a uniformed youth organisation, so you will be expected to take pride in your appearance and personal discipline at all times.
Being an Air Cadet opens up a world of opportunities for you, including:
Air
Flying and gliding, air experience flights in the RAF fixed wing and rotary fleet, drone operations and pilot training including the opportunity to fly solo
Space
Learn about the Royal Air Force and defence industry capabilities in satellite communications, rocketry, air and space technology
Cyber
For those curious about computer and networking skills, programming, cyber security and cyber warfare
Skills
Specialist trainers deliver sports, music, bands, first aid, radio communications, drill and ceremonial and road marching. RAF Air Cadets is also one of the largest UK providers of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme
Adventure Training
Visit one of our training and activity centres around the UK to try rock climbing, abseiling, high-level hill walking, mountain-biking, canoeing, high rope work and sailing.
Military
Visits to specialist units across the UK armed forces, target shooting, parachuting, annual camps at military bases in the UK and overseas, fieldcraft and survival skills, experiencing overseas travel through the International Air Cadet Exchange programme
Further education
Gain BTEC diplomas in teamwork and personal development, leadership, music, and ILM qualifications in leadership and management
Gain skills for life
Whatever activities you choose to enjoy, you will certainly gain skills that can help with all aspects of your life, from now into adulthood. These skills will be useful for any path you follow in the future. There’s no need to worry about your level of ability or experience. Once you join your local squadron, you will get to know other cadets and start basic training.
You are gradually introduced to activities as you progress, so you can make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.
Find out more about our training
A safe place to try new things
The number one focus for the RAF Air Cadets is the safety of our people. All our members have a duty of care to themselves and others, using appropriate health and safety guidance, so that all activities are carried out safely. The safeguarding of young people is central to all our operations and a robust safeguarding policy and governance framework is followed. The RAF Air Cadets prides itself on being a fully inclusive organisation.
Find out more about our approach to safeguarding
