1924 (Shirley) Squadron Air Training Corps

The Air Training Corps is often described as one of the "best kept secrets" for young people.  Currently the ATC consists of over 40,000 cadets, nearly 10,000 volunteer staff and 5,000 committee members.  The ATC is one of the most successful youth organisations in the world and you have the opportunity to be a part of this great experience.  Air Cadets are aged 13-18 years and take part in activities that many young people would not even dream of having the opportunity to do. 

As an Air Cadet you get the chance to go flying and gliding, get taught how to shoot, take part in many team sports up to a National level, go on camp at RAF and Army bases throughout the UK and overseas, learn adventure training in the field, as well as going climbing, abseiling and canoeing...the list is endless!  If an activity isn’t available in the ATC it won’t be worth doing! The Air Training Corps is also the largest operator of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.  The ATC’s Commodore-in-Chief is HRH Prince Philip, and he takes a keen interest in the organisation.     

• To promote and encourage among young people a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force
• To provide training which will be useful in the Services and Civilian Life
• To foster the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship

The current Commandant of the Air Cadet Organisation Air Commodore Ian R W Stewart BSc RAF is passionate about the Air Cadets, and follows his foreward from the Air Cadets Website.  “Looking to the future my aspiration is to provide every cadet with the opportunity for flight in both a glider and a Tutor aircraft, experience our adventurous activities, achieve a bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award and earn a BTEC diploma in an aviation related subject. The latter aims to ensure that the ethos and fun that the ACO provides will broaden their horizons. He asks that whilst looking at this website and discovering what a cadet or a volunteer can do, you ask yourself: 'Can you rise to the challenge and go above and beyond?'”

The young people of today need organisation’s like the ATC who are run by have committed, enthusiastic and well trained staff teams to enable them to go forward as the “Next Generation”.   If you are interested in joining then please explore this site in more detail and then send us your details via the “Contact ” page. Shirley Squadron is not only open to 13-18 year olds, if you are older and have relevant skills or simply an interest in the organisation then please contact us.