 How to Join
Are you ready for new friends, new adventures and new skills? Are you ready to become part of our Squadron? We are waiting to hear from you . . .
So you've had a look around our website, maybe spoken to a friend who is already a Cadet, or maybe you've just been waiting for you're 13th birthday!
Now it's time to join !
Read through the following for general information about joining us then complete the form at the bottom of this page - we'll be in touch !
• Age requirements
The minimum age to join the ATC is 13. Although you can be a Cadet until you are 18, the oldest realistic age to joing is your 17th birthday.
• Visit us
You are very welcome to visit during one of our regular scheduled evening parades. There's no obligation. Come and find out more by discussing the Air Training Corps with one of our leaders. You could also ask some cadets what they think, and don't be surprised if you find that you already know some of them. You are welcome to bring a parent, as they probably have a few questions too!
Although you can call-in unannounced on any Tuesday or Thursday evening it's advisable to phone or email to check when the Officer Commanding (Flight Lieutenant Rushton) will be onsite. Any of our Adult Staff can answer your questions, however the OC will be best placed to speak to you simply because the other staff are usually committed to an activity.
• Arriving at 1254 Squadron HQ
When you arrive at our Hallam Road HQ you might find it a bit intimidating - please don't be!
We have security gates because the property we share with the Area HQ for the Army Cadets belongs to the Ministry of Defence. There is no bell to ring - please just wait for someone to spot you & when they approach tell them why you are there and who you want to see. Our HQ is the wooden building, with blue doors immediately to the left of the main gates.
If you arrive around 19.00hrs, or shortly thereafter, you'll get a feeling for the Squadron as everyone arrives and gets organised for the evening's activities. It's usually a very exciting time!
By 19.30hrs things have settled down - some Cadets will be in class studying and others will be practicing drill, or maybe off site on an activity. It is possible to arrive and find everyone is out!
• The joining process
Joining is a simple process. Having met us and when you are sure the ATC is for you, it's just a case of completing a simple application form. There is nothing tricky involved - we just need your details for our records and to begin your formal training. There is no formal medical, or any entrance exams or fitness tests to pass. Please note, you will need your parent(s) or legal guardian's signed permission to join.
• When can I start?
Although, in theory, you can start at any time we are increasingly organising staggered intakes of new recruits. This often means you are not alone as you go through your basic training, plus it is more efficient for our Staff who provide the 16 week basic training. Intakes are several times a year and you will never be too far from a start date.
• Contact us about joining as a Cadet
Join us! We look forward to meeting you soon!
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