1404 (Chatham) Squadron

The Air Training Corps

With almost 35,000 members, aged from 13 to 22 years, within over 1,000 Squadrons, the ATC is one of the country's premier youth organizations and the world's largest youth air training organization. The Cadets are supported by a volunteer Staff of nearly 10,000 plus 5,000 Civilian Committee Members.

The Aims of the Air Training Corps are:

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 ATC Motto is:

'Venture Adventure'

The Air Training Corps is the largest operator of the

Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme

Perhaps that's not so surprising when you learn that HRH Prince Philip is the ATC's Commodore-in-Chief, taking a keen interest in the organization and its members.

Air Cadets get the opportunity of flying in RAF and commercial aircraft - many progressing to achieve Flying Scholarships and their Private Pilots Licence (PPL).

The Corps, which has charitable status, is not a recruiting organization but many members do go on to have careers in the Royal Air Force, other Services or civilian life. Currently approximately 50% of all aircrew (pilots, navigators and NCO aircrew) and 47% of Officers are ex-Cadets.