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Q: Is there any compulsion on me to join the RAF after I leave the cadets?

A: There is no compulsion on behalf of any cadet to join the Armed Forces. However many cadets find the Corps so enjoyable that they decide to go onto a full time career in the Forces.

Q: Will I be called up in time of war or national emergency?

A: Cadets, of the required legal age, stand no more chance of being conscripted than any other civilian member of society.

Q: Are there less oppurtunities for females in the Corps?

A: Female cadets are fully integrated into the ATC and share exactly the same oppurtunities and responsibilities as male cadets. That is not to say there is never rivalry between the sexes, especially on the sportsfield!

Q: Is the Corps committed to equal opportunities?

A: The Corps is fully committed to equal opportunities and welcomes U.K. citizens of any race or religion.

Q: How much will this cost me?

A: Squadrons charge from 50p to £2 a week. Some are much cheaper and some are more expensive. However everything else, including uniform, is provided free of charge. The fees should not discourage any potential cadet as a hardship fund has been set up to help cadets who have difficulty with funding.

Q: How physically fit do I have to be?

A: The Corps caters for all types of person; whilst those who are naturally sporty can go on to represent their squadron, wing, corps and even country, those who are not so athletic will not be forced into any activity they are not comfortable with. Having said that though the squadron very much has a "have a go" attitude and we pride ourselves on our sporting achievements.

Q: How much of my time will I have to give?

A: This all depends on how much time you want to give!! Normally, a squadron meets up for two evening sessions each week which are usually two hours long - however this could vary for squadrons in your area. You could normally go through ATC life by just attending these sessions. However, the fun lies in all the external activities that are on offer. There are chances that your squadron could be away some weekends doing adventure training (camping, walking, abseiling, canoeing and the sort....). Also, there are several camps and courses that you can attend throughout the year (such as Leadership Courses, Annual Camps overseas or at UK locations at RAF stations, hand-gliding, skiing etc.). Plus, there may be social events organised by your squadron such as bowling, ice skating and BBQ's are always fun. So, all in all, the more time that you put in, the more you'll get out of it and the more you will enjoy it! If you are thinking of joining the ATC or are already in the ATC, then once you attend the squadron regularly and try to attend as many external activities, then you will want to put more time in! However, i must stress that you mustn't let it take priority over your schoolwork, if you're at school that is. I'm sure that anyone who loves the ATC will agree with me. It's just one big family!

Q: I am over 20 years of age but would still like to contribute. How can I help?

A: Adult volunteers are extremely useful to each and every squadron and can play one of two roles on a squadron. They can either become Civilian Instructors and help in the day to day operation of the squadron or they can join the Civilian Committee which meets monthly to help the staff with funding requirements and other vital issues. Unfortunately volunteers can not be paid, but they will be reimbursed for travel costs.