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 Cadet Qualifications
In addition to the Cadets rank structure outlined on the previous pages, there are four levels of qualification for the Cadets, three of which are shown here. They are:
In addition to those pictured above, there is Staff Cadet who wear a yellow landyard on their left arm. Cadets attain these qualifications by study and formal examinations. To be promoted to a non-Commisioned Officer rank, a Cadet must have attained at least Leading Cadet status before being considered. This is broadly similar to the qualifications of the Royal Air Force, where personnel complete initial basic & trade training normally with the rank of Leading Aircraftman/woman (LAC/LACW), followed by Senior Aircraftman/woman (SAC/SACW). However, there is an additional rank in the RAF of Junior Technician (J/T) which is not represented in the Air Training Corps. Do you like shooting? There are qualification badges for Marksmen/women as well!
Civilian Instructors
Alongside the uniformed staff are Civilian Instructors (or CI's) who assist in the running of the Flight or Squadron. They are normally dressed in civilian clothes and sometimes wear a gold-coloured ATC lapel badge with the initials 'CI' enclosed.
Discipline
As part of the military sphere, the ATC is a disciplined organisation with a formal rank structure and form of address for the Officers and Staff. Commissioned Officers are saluted by Cadets (when in uniform), and are called Sir or Ma'am (the 'a' is pronounced as is 'lamb', not as in 'arm'). Adult Warrant Officers are also called Sir, or Ma'am but they are not saluted. The same is true of Civilian Instructors.
Other ranks are referred to by their rank title, from Corporal to Flight Sergeant.
Drill movements are practiced regularly and you will be taught the basics from very early on in your ATC career! It's not as difficult as you may think, but does require some practice and concentration to get it right. Unlike in the movies, there is definately not a lot of shouting and raised voices to get things done! However, when orders are given you will be expected to carry them out to the best of your ability and as quickly as you can! Teamwork
Part of the doctrine of the Cadet Organisation is to provide a basis for teamwork, instill confidence and a sense of belonging. Being part of a team and carrying out orders in an orderly, calm and disciplined manner does help you, the Cadets. The system is tried and tested - and it works!
Remember, one of our aims is 'To foster the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship'. If you have a skill that would be useful to your fellow Cadets, don't keep it to yourself! Share your knowledge - it will be noticed by the Staff. Remember one of the most corny but truest statement ever made is there is no 'I' in the word team.
     Copyright © 2004 20 Squadron Air Training Corps. All rights reserved.
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