The first step on the Air Cadet journey is to join your local squadron. Most squadrons are happy for you to come along on any parade night without an appointment. Others may have specific recruitment evenings. Individual squadron websites may provide more information on their own recruitment procedures. The best way to get in touch with a squadron is to e-mail or phone the Squadron Headquarters and speak to a member of staff on a parade night.

Anybody can join as an Air Cadet as long as you are aged between 13 and 17. Cadets can stay in the organisation until the age of 20. We encourage recruits from all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of religion, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, sexual orientation or disability.

When you attend a squadron for the first time, you and your parent / guardian (if under 18) will be given an induction by staff, and if possible, meet the Officer Commanding. When you join, you will be known as a ‘Junior Cadet’. You will not be issued with a uniform at this point, but you will still be encouraged to participate in most squadron activities.

During your first few weeks, you will take some basic training and then be enrolled. Enrolment as a full member of the squadron will entitle you to be issued with a cadet uniform. You will be known as a ‘Second Class Cadet’ and study towards your ‘First Class Cadet’ classification award. This training is informal and not examined. Successful completion will result in the award of the First Class badge. First Class training typically takes around 3 months depending on your squadron.

After this time, you can progress through the classification system by studying new subjects and sitting exams. Reasonable adjustments can be made for cadets with learning difficulties or physical disabilities.