Information for
NEW JOINERS
to 2187 Squadron ATC
____________________

Entry requirements

Any boy or girl aged between 13-17 can join (20 is the maximum leaving age)

Cost

Subscriptions are £10 per month (or £30 per quarter). This covers the cost of some activities, so that when cadets attend flying and gliding, for example, there is no charge. This does not cover all activities however. Should cadets/parents have problems with paying subs at any time, they should speak to a member of staff so arrangements can be made, but it vital that subs are paid promptly.

Attendance

We parade every week of the year, with the exception of bank holidays, and a two-week period over Christmas. Due to the nature of our training programme, it is important that cadets attend every Monday & Friday evening when possible. Naturally, schoolwork takes priority and there may be times when the cadet is not able to attend (or is sick).

It is important therefore, that the cadet informs an NCO or staff member if leave is required prior to being absent, or that they telephone the squadron HQ on 01268 694528. Failure to do so could mean that they would be unnecessarily penalised when certain activities (i.e., Flying) arise at a later date. However, cadets do not get penalised if they request leave of absence.

Uniform

The ‘blue' uniform is provided free of charge by the RAF (apart from shoes and socks/tights). This is issued after approximately the first month's attendance, depending on availability in squadron stores. This is replaced as and when required, but there is a charge if uniform is lost or damaged without good reason. Uniform is returned when a cadet leaves the ATC. 'Green' uniform can be loaned, or purchased at low cost from the squadron stores. Please speak to a member of Squadron staff about this.

What should I wear before I am given uniform?

This should generally consist of white shirt, black trousers/skirt (and jumper/sweater when needed) and black shoes (no trainers). Alternatively, school uniform will suffice. If you have any questions on dress or uniform, please speak to the cadet NCO's or staff who will be able to advise you.

Social Activities

At 2187 (Canvey Island) Squadron, we have a number of social activities throughout the year. This has included Parties, Quiz Nights, as well as going Quasar (Laserquest), ten-pin bowling and days out at Chessington World of Adventures. You are encouraged to invite friends and family to some of these events.

Squadron Mess Night & Awards Evening

A Mess Night is an RAF style dinner, where all cadets and staff dress in their best uniforms. This fun night is held annually (normally about October) at the Oysterfleet Hotel, and involves a three course dinner, presentation of awards (such as Best Cadet, Best Sports Cadet etc), and then is followed by a DJ until 1am. This is considered a compulsory parade for all squadron members, and you are allowed to invite friends and family, and there are usually guests from other ATC squadrons, as well as ex-cadets whom have gone on to to serve with the RAF.

Remembrance Day Parade

Remembrance Day Parade is held every November to commemorate those killed serving their country in various wars. This is also considered a compulsory parade for all squadron members. A short service is held at the Paddocks Community Centre, then the parade marches with other organisations to the Royal British Legion Club for some refreshments.

Ready to join?

Or just want some more info? Here's how you can get in contact with us.

The Benefits

Apart from having a great time doing varied activities with great mates, find out how being an Air Cadet can help you in the future.

WE ARE RECRUITING NOW!

We are looking for new recruits to join our squadron!

If you are aged between 13 and 17
years old, why not come and visit our HQ
on Canvey Island and see what fantastic
activities you can get involved in, and what
great new friends you'll make?

AIR CADETS

BE PART OF IT

2187 (CANVEY ISLAND) SQUADRON ATC
"VENTURE ADVENTURE"

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