Frequently Asked Questions

When do we meet?

Monday and Friday nights 7pm to 9.30pm

What does it cost?
There is a £10 joining fee but no subcriptions are required during your probationary period, once issued with a uniform and enrolled as a cadet the cost is £2.50 per week

What do I need to wear on a cadet night?
On a cadet night, before being issued with a uniform, we expect you to be smart, shirt and trousers/skirt, school uniform is ideal.
Should there activities arranged for the evening where this dress is not appropriate you will be advised

Do I need to tell anyone if I am not attending?
Yes, contact the Squadron on the telephone number detailed on the contact page.

Is the uniform free?
The uniform is freely issued to you but remains the property of 2458 Shipley and Baildon Squadron, to this end is important it is well cleaned and maintained and returned to the Squadron in full on reaching the end of your service with the Squadron. You will be expected to provide your own black leather shoes.

How am I expected to behave?
This is a voluntary military based youth organisation. We expect a certain level of discipline and decorum whilst at the same time enjoying the activities provided for you. This is not a boot camp, we don’t expect marines we expect you to behave as young adults and you will be treated accordingly

When can I go flying?
You can go flying as soon as you have been enrolled and having passed the Airmanship, Map Reading and Communications exams which are part of your 1st Class basic training

When can I go on camp?
You can attend uniform camps after having completed your 1st Class basic training, you can attend adventure training camps from the date you join

Do I have to join the Royal Air Force?
Not at all, we actively encourage a career in all of the armed forces, however we are teaching skills for life useful in both Civilian and Service careers

What are the advantages to me joining?
We teach skills for life, you get to meet new people from all over the country and make friends for life, you get qualifications such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s award scheme and a BTEC in aviation studies, you get to go flying and gliding for free, you get adventure training opportunities that you wouldn’t get with any other youth organisation.