Classification Structure

In recognition of successfully passing the separate stages of the education syllabus, the Air Training Corps (ATC) offers a graded series of Classification badges. When a cadet first joins a Squadron, he/she must complete a Probationary period before being fully enrolled onto the Squadron as a 'Cadet'.

At 2492 (Luton Airport) Squadron, any new probationers are added to the current rolling programme of the Initial Training Flight (ITF). At this stage he/she are classified as a 'Second Class Cadet' and will initially wear a 'blank' brassard on their uniform apart from the ATC distinguishing badge and Squadron identification number. Flight Sergeant Neale and Cpl Squires have structured the ITF training programme in such a way that newer probationers can easily follow the programme up to that current stage of training.

Full enrolment onto the Squadron then occurs when the ITF have successfully passed their First Class Cadet training in a full ceremony with the Wing/Squadron Padre and parents/guardians. This takes place within 12 weeks of joining as a probationer.

To gain your First Class Cadet classification, you must complete the following training: The ATC including history, The RAF including brief history, History of Flight, Initial Expedition Training, Airmanship I, Basic Communications & Map reading. In addition to this you will also have to successfully pass a Basic Drill Test (BDT) assessed by one of the Squadron Adult Warrant Officer's.

Once a probationer has completed all the subjects above, an internal Squadron examination is then taken where on a successful pass, he/she you will be awarded with a First Class Cadet badge. The distinguishing feature of this classification badge is a four pointed star and is worn on a Brassard. A Brassard is a form of armlet that is worn on the cadet's right arm.

The First Class Cadet is the minimum requirement for a cadet to be eligible for a UK Annual Camp, Flying, Gliding, Shooting and Sports at Inter-Squadron level.

First ClassCadet

Flying

Gliding

Shooting

To gain your Leading Cadet classification, you must complete the following training: Basic Navigation, Principles of Flight and Airmanship II. Once a First Class Cadet has completed all the subjects above, an external written examination is taken where on a successful Pass, Credit or Distinction a Leading Cadet badge is awarded. The distinguishing feature of this badge is a four bladed propeller and is worn on your Brassard in place of your First Class Cadet badge.

A Leading Cadet will now be eligible to attend Overseas Annual Camps and satisfy some Shooting & Gliding requirements.

Leading Cadet

To gain your Senior cadet classification, you must complete two of either the following subjects: Aircraft Handling, Air Navigation, Advanced Radio and Radar, Pilot Navigation, Airframes, Operational Flying or Satellite Communications. Once a Leading Cadet has completed two of the subjects above, an external written examination is taken where on a successful Pass, Credit or Distinction a Senior Cadet badge is awarded. The distinguishing feature of this badge is the amalgamation of the First Class Cadet and Leading Cadet badges. This is worn on your Brassard in place of your Leading Cadet badge.

Senior Cadet

To gain your Staff Cadet classification, you must complete two of the subjects not taken for the Senior Cadet classification mentioned above. Once a Senior Cadet has completed the two subjects, an external written examination is taken where on a successful Pass, Credit or Distinction a Staff Cadet Lanyard is awarded. In addition to these subjects, you will also have to pass an oral examination by your Wing Staff Officer (WSO) based on your knowledge of the ATC and give a presentation lasting approximately 12 minutes in assessment of presentation skills. A Staff Cadet on a Squadron is utilised in lecturing the former three classifications in the education season. The distinguishing feature of this classification is a yellow lanyard and is worn on the left shoulder. The Senior Cadet badge is removed from the brassard on gaining this classification.