To ensure that cadet training is carried out efficiently indivudal cadets are graded with a classification. Each classification comprises of learning about a variety of different topics such as map reading or the principles of flight. Upon completion of a classification cadets are awarded with a badge as recognition for this achievement are then are moved up to the next training package.

When you first join the squadron you will be known as a Junior Cadet. For approximately three months you will be learning about the basics of becoming a cadet and gives you time to decide whether you want to stay at the squadron.

After Junior Cadet you become a Second Class Cadet. You are now issued with your uniform and your personal record of service book (3822) which you record all the events and activities you have done with the ATC into it. In this classification the subject you will cover are the history and organisation of the Air Training Corps and Royal Air Force, the Rifle and safe weapons handling, map reading, initial expedition training, airmanship principles, the history of flight, foot drill and basic communications. A new addition to this section is the HeartStart UK first aid course.

This period is designed to be as practical as possible in order to get you involved and interested in the subjects taught as it will pave the way for the rest of your career in the Air Training Corps.

After completing the Second Class Cadet syllabus you will become a First Class Cadet and awarded the badge just below. You are taken out of the training flight and into the main squad for foot drill and will learn more drill movements including rifle and ceremonial drill. In the classroom you will learn about basic navigation, the principles of flight, and advanced airmanship.

In addition to this you will be required to complete 25 hours of project work in order to progress to the next classification. Project work consists of extra activities completed outside of the main training syllabus.

If the cadet has reached 16 years of age and Leading Cadet classification, he or she can go to overseas camps such as Cyprus and Gibraltar. Subjects covered are Air Navigation and Propulsion. Again 25 project hours are required in order to progress to the next classification.

After completing the Leading Cadet syllabus you will become a Senior Cadet. This teaching is split into two sections - Staff Part 1 and 2. Part 1 consists of teachings from the ACPs (as per First Class, Leading and Senior classifications) and you will cover topics on satellite communications and operational flying.

Part 2 training is slightly different from the rest of the teaching syllabus. You will learn about the higher levels of the Corps' structure and about how the running of an individual Squadron operates. You will also be looking at how to complete administrative functions and instructional technique in order to teach junior cadets. It is assessed in the form of an interview by the Squadron's Wing Staff Officer who will decide whether you have attained the necessary standard to become a Staff Cadet.

Staff Cadet is the final classification a cadet can reach and indicates that a cadet has completed all of the training syllabus set by the Air Training Corps. However, this does not mean there is nothing left to achieve as there is still much more opportunities available. To become a staff you must be 16 years of age. Instead of wearing a badge to show what classification you are, a gold lanyard is worn around the left shoulder.

However, if the cadet has completed a Junior Leaders course, a maroon lanyard replaces the regular gold one as a sign of recognition or the course. This is a tough course and only a select few in the Corps will succeed in completing the course each year. For more information go to http://www.juniorleaders.org/.