As a parent, you can join the Squadron as a Civilian Instructor or Civilian Committee and be part of a team of staff that work tirelessly to make every cadet's experience as best as it possibly can be. 

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All staff and Committee members are fully vetted.   The most common volunteer designation in Air Cadets is Civilian Instructor - it's a varied role allowing you to use your skills where they best fit. You can give as much or as little time as you can, and you don't need any formal qualifications - just enthusiasm that's infectious.

Your role is vital to the success of our cadets. You'll see your dedication and effort pay off in the achievements you inspire amongst our members. But it isn't just the cadets that benefit - you'll get involved in many squadron activities and have the same kinds of opportunities as cadets to develop your leadership skills and gain qualifications in things such as mountain leadership, First Aid and NVQs that may be useful to you in your career. You'll also have as much fun as the cadets do!

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Why air cadets? It's a fair question, but ask anyone who has taken part as a cadet, adult volunteer or parent and you'll know how special the organisation is. It offers young people from all walks of life a chance to get active, learn new skills and make new friends in an inspirational and safe environment.

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We ask parents for as little as possible. We provide most of the kit and encourage cadets to be self-sufficient and keep their uniforms in good order themselves. Don't be upset if they ask you not to iron their shirt as there is a certain way of doing it and they are encouraged to handle it themselves! However, you are responsible for their uniform, which is valued at around £200 and is issued on loan - it should only be used for air cadet activities and must be returned at the end of their time with us.

Footwear is not included, so shoes or boots will need to be provided. Beyond this, your responsibility is mainly for getting your son or daughter to the squadron promptly for meetings and supporting them as they progress. However, any further involvement is always gratefully received.

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All organisations need funding. We are luckier than most as the RAF provide the money for uniforms, premises, flying and several other activities. Each cadet provides a small subscription which goes towards funding the many activities that they undertake. National and international camps and expeditions may lead to extra costs - but we will always keep these to a minimum. We want the organisation to be available to everyone and staff are happy to discuss cost-related issues with parents at any time.

The squadron must provide the rest of the required funding, primarily through the fundraising efforts of the Civilian Committee that each has. We're always looking for parents who are keen to get involved with their squadron's Committee or would like to become a volunteer!

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Your child's safety

Every parent's primary concern is for the safety and well-being of their son or daughter. Rest assured we take this equally seriously. Many of our activities (often outdoor) rely on our cadets being in a safe, secure and enjoyable environment in which they can sometimes be challenged physically. Our long history is a testament to our expertise and care in this area so that we can provide the thrills of adventurous training under the guidance of experienced, trustworthy staff. The staff at your local squadron are always available to speak to and will put your mind at rest regarding any concerns you may have.

The Air Cadets also has its own Safeguarding Officer. The contact for the RAFAC Safeguarding Officer is:

• Telephone - 01400 267088

• E-mail - RAFAC-HQ-Safeguarding@mod.gov.uk

Link to: Ministry of Defence Cadet Forces Safeguarding Framework

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Capable staff, safe cadets

Our volunteers are the inspirational connection between the organisation and our cadets. We train and prepare our staff (many of whom have been air cadets themselves or have a Service background) to deal with the needs of young people and encourage their skills in all endeavours they undertake. Volunteer staff at all levels are strictly checked through the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly CRB) and receive internal security checks before they can take sole charge or responsible leadership of cadets.

Volunteers are also fully trained and qualified in any activities that they are involved in, not least those taking part in adventurous pursuits who are also qualified first-aiders (essential first aid is also taught to cadets).

Rest assured - this is the way all squadrons operate - only with skilled, capable and responsible volunteers would we be able to maintain the high standards that our cadets experience and which helps push them to be higher achievers in everything they do with us - safely and confidently.