The CCF(RAF) aims to promote and encourage young people with a practical interest in aviation and the RAF as well as fostering the spirit of adventure and helping to develop the qualities of leadership and citizenship. Activities include drill, flying, gliding, shooting, STEM and first aid. Within the CCF (RAF) cadets also have the opportunity to complete recognized qualifications such as BTEC’s in Teamwork and Personal Development and Awards from the Institute of Leadership and Management.
By joining the CCF (RAF) cadets are also offered more unique opportunities such as Gliding and Flying Scholarships, the Air Cadet Leadership Course and the National Aerospace Camp.
Activities and Training
On average cadets serve around four years in the CCF and training is steadily progressive allowing them to progress from Basic qualifications, through Advanced and on to the Leadership levels of achievement.
Cadets follow the RAF Air Cadets (RAFAC) Progressive Training Syllabus which builds from basic proficiencies to more advanced qualifications and leadership development.
Training Syllabus
The RAFAC Progressive Training Syllabus consists of a range of subjects including:
- Cadet Aviation Classifications
- Shooting & Marksmanship
- Leadership
- Aviation & Gliding
- First Aid
- Cyber and Radio
- Music
First Class Cadet
During their first year cadets will work towards completing their First Class Cadet Syllabus. This includes:
- History of Flight
- Principles of Airmanship
- Map and Compass
- Drill
- First Aid
- Basic Radio Communications
Leading Cadet
The Leading Cadet Syllabus consists of a number of more specialist subjects and builds on subjects previously learnt in the First Class Cadet Syllabus. These include:
- Airmanship Knowledge
- Principles of Flight
- Basic Navigation
- Basic Leadership
- Aviation Training Package (Practical Flying and Gliding)
- Advanced Communications
- Cyber
Senior Cadet
The Senior Cadet Syllabus builds further on the disciplines of both First Class and Leading Cadet and is supplemented by external courses offered by the Air Cadets.
Cadet Promotion
Whilst progressing through the RAF Section syllabus, cadets can aspire to achieve promotion within their section. Although promotion is based on merit and selection by the Contingent Commander, it is also closely tied with the courses passed as follows:
To Lance Corporal – Pass First Class Cadet
To Corporal – Pass Leading Cadet
To Sergeant – Pass MOI or Leadership Cadre
Above Sergeant – Selected on merit and ability