Information for Parents
Why join RAF 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.
Cadets won't interfere with school commitments, school always comes first! If your son or daughter joins us, they will take away an invaluable set of experiences and strong personal ethics with them when they leave. All of which will be put to good use in their future higher education and vocations. It's true that some cadets do pursue a career within the Services, but there is no expectation for them to join up after leaving. Their personal development as confident and spirited young people is our main aim.
Through our volunteer staff, we’ll offer your son or daughter many activities to take part in and every opportunity to build their strengths and improve their confidence. We hope that they stay with us for several years and thoroughly enjoy their membership. Our volunteer staff are always on hand to assist parents with any questions or concerns.
Proactive communications with parents are achieved through a combination of Facebook, emails, phone calls and Cadet Portal.
Your responsibilities
We ask parents for as little as possible. We provide most of the kit and encourage cadets to be self-sufficient and keep their uniform 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 clean and washed 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.