CLASSIFICATION

In the Air Training Corps, every cadet has a classification. This is totally separate from rank. Rank is awarded purely by merit, while classification is given by academic achievement in RAF related subjects. There are five classifications: 2nd Class, 1st Class, Leading, Senior and Staff. The badge of classification is worn on a cadet's brassard, a cloth band on the right arm. The brassard also carries the ATC distinguishing badge and the Squadron identification badge.

 

Squadron Identification ::Second Class :: First Class :: Leading :: Senior :: Staff Squadron Identification Squadron Identification Badge Distinguishing Badge Second Class   This classification is given to every cadet as soon as they have enrolled. There is no badge for this classification and it is kept unitl the 1st class exam is passed. First Class The syllabus for the 1st class exam includes drill, basic airmanship, expedition training, the history of the RAF and ATC, communications and weapons handling. This all sound rather daunting but the content is very easy and most people pass with about a 70% or 80% mark. The badge of a First Class Cadet is shown above and is worn on the brassard. Leading Once the classification of First Class is gained, training will begin on the leading syllabus. Subjects include, basic navigation, principles of flight and airmanship. A list is given below. Exams are held three times every year. The badge of classification is shown above. Becoming a Leading Cadet will allow you to go to overseas camps and other "Good Things"! Senior To become a Senior Cadet, two subjects out of the ones listed below in the Senior column have to be studied. The badge of classification is shown above. Staff There are two parts to becoming a staff cadet. The Part One exam is just like the others and as for Senior, two subjects are chosen from the list below. Part Two is taken at a Wing HQ and you will have to show that you can teach and that you have a very good understanding of the workings of the ATC. There is no badge of classification, but a yellow lanyard is worn on the left arm.