The ACO is made up of two areas:

• RAF Air Cadets are divided into six regions, 34 wings and more than 900 squadrons within communities around the UK Combined
• Cadet Force (RAF) – The CCF (RAF) is our section of the CCF which is made up of Cadets from all three services, coming together in approximately 200 independent and state schools across the country.

The ACO aims to:

• Promote and encourage a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force among young people
• Provide training which will be useful in the Services and civilian life
• Encourage the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship

And there’s one more important thing – it’s a lot of fun!

As a Cadet you’ll have the opportunity to do things that others only dream about. Want real flight experience? No problem. How about heading out on adventurous training and camps, sometimes overseas?

Competitive sports, drill, shooting, music, abseiling, engineering projects? Our list of activities is long, varied and open to all Cadets. The ACO also gives Cadets the opportunity to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and to gain BTEC qualifications in various subjects.

The ACO is not a recruiting organisation for the RAF but if you’re thinking about a Service career, Cadet membership will put you ahead of the competition. Many Cadets go on to great success in the RAF (and the other Services).

Around 40% of officers and 50% of all aircrew (including pilots, navigators and engineers) in the RAF now are ex-Cadets. Research shows that they do better in basic training and stay in the Service longer than their colleagues.

Likewise, if you chose a civilian career the ACO’s research proves you can go on to great things…employers just love the skills and experience that Air Cadet’s offer.

Let’s face it – where else would you be given the opportunity to fly solo in a glider or powered aircraft when you’re 17 years-old? Whatever you do with your life, at the end of your time as a Cadet you’ll be self-motivated, confident and ready for anything

There are over 55 squadrons in the East Midlands. Its ethos is to enable young people with high-flying aspirations to partake in various exciting aviation courses and community-based activities.

Upon joining a local RAF Air Cadet unit, the Gliding Induction Course teaches Air Cadets all about aerodynamics and controlling light aircraft. Following on from this, there is the opportunity to gain Gliding Scholarship Wings, which offer a more in-depth study of aviation as well as more flight time.

Air Cadets also get the unique chance to experience the exhilaration of flight on-board a Grob Tutor, or even an in-service RAF aircraft such as the Hawk fast-jet or a Chinook helicopter.

East Midlands RFCA provides property management and maintenance for the ATC in the region.

Contact the RAF Air Cadets in your area today. Click here to find your nearest unit.

To learn more about the RAF Air Cadets visit www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets/