Aviation, action and adventure are all part of the fun for young people at the Royal Air Force Air Cadets.

1861 (Wantage) Squadron – the Air Cadets for Wantage, Grove, Faringdon and surrounding villages – is just one of 1,000 squadrons across the UK. It was formed on the last day of 1941, and now is a youth organisation sponsored and supported by the Royal Air Force, although not part of it, and is a registered charity which relies on volunteers. Air Cadets inspires young people and develops their interest in aviation and community spirit through a sense of fun and adventure. Male and female Cadets age 13 to 17 experience a variety of activities including the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, target shooting, camping, hiking, qualifying as a glider pilot, and completing a flying scholarship.

Military foot drills are a team-building exercise and adventure training develops independence and leadership skills. Making aircraft model kits and target shooting encourages self-discipline and attention to detail. The majority of Squadron activities are linked to useful qualifications such as First Aid at Work Certificate, Basic Expedition Leader Award, BTEC certificate in Aviation Studies and BTEC diploma in Public Service.

For those career-minded teenagers, the Squadron provides opportunities through a network of organisations such as the Royal Aeronautical Society, which invites and encourage cadets to attend events and seminars. There are opportunities to visit aviation companies: those who build aircraft, research and development businesses, and those who build orbital satellites and all the support activities associated with operating airports or delivering air shows. This gives great opportunities to learn the industry and network.

Flt Lt Nigel Furlong, Officer Commanding of 1861 (Wantage) Squadron, said: “Should an individual wish to join the RAF we can support their interest by giving them knowledge of what the RAF does, its terminology, what aircraft it has, who does what in the RAF, its structure, where it operates and to a small degree what the service, and in particular culture and ethos of the RAF is. We can't get people in the RAF but we can help.”

The Squadron’s next intake is on January 8. For more information, visit wantage-sqn.net or email oc.1861@aircadets.org to register on the waiting list for the next intake.