Radio Communications, Rugby, Regional Activity Centre and Remembrance.

As with most ATC activities, Radio Communication training is progressive, starting with the blue Basic Radio Operator (BRO) qualification. At this initial level, the cadets gain knowledge on how to competently use radio equipment for general administrative duties and small exercises on the squadron. It can be completed as part of the First Class classification, with an assessment at the end. At bronze level (Radio Operator), the cadets build on the skills developed during the BRO qualification, with the added ability to be a radio operator for a flight of cadets on an exercise. The silver level (Communicator) is split into two sections, the first being based on the advanced radio operating procedures which allow cadets to act as network controllers during a radio exercise, with the second part focusing on an additional communications skill, such as an amateur radio licence, computer networks of data communications. The final level, Communications Specialist (gold badge) details how to build a complete radio station, and incorporates the technical skills and radio deployment.

Each year, the wing competes in a variety of sports competitions, competing against other wings to represent the region, and onwards to corps matches. One such competition is Rugby. Cadets from the squadron have the opportunity to join others from around the wing for Rugby training sessions which happen throughout the year, with the opportunity to be selected for the wing team. Although competition can often be tough, cadets have previously been selected to compete at higher levels.

The North Region – Royal Air Force Air Cadets Regional Activity Centre (RAC), based at RAF Linton-on-Ouse, is a facility available for squadrons throughout North Region to book on a weekend, to host a weekend camp. Use of the facilities at the RAC, which can include access to activities such as sports, leadership, fieldcraft, STEM, radio communications, target shooting, archery, drill, museum visits and first aid casualty simulation can allow for a varied multi-activity weekend. More specialist activities can also be ran out of the centre, such as a shooting development weekend. This year the squadron have utilised the facilities twice, running both of the aforementioned events.

As with the majority of other cadet forces, the squadron participates in Remembrance events throughout the year, such as Armed Forces Day and Remembrance Sunday. In addition to these events, cadets also participate in smaller events within their schools, representing the cadet forces.

Do you fancy getting involved in any of these activities? Are you up for fun, adventure, incredible experiences and making new friends? Aged between 12 (and in year 8 ) and 17? JOIN AIR CADETS. We are recruiting now, send us a message to find out more and join us next week as we continue our #WhatWeDoWednesday articles.
Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets