Training
Training and Qualifications
One of our aims is to “Provide training which will be useful in the Services and civilian life”.
In Bristol and Gloucestershire Wing we give our cadets and staff opportunities which, in many instances, result in externally recognised national qualifications. These qualifications undoubtedly set them apart from the crowd when applying to University or seeking promotion in employment.
In Bristol and Gloucestershire Wing some of the training and qualifications open to Cadets are noted below. There are also qualifications available for Staff. If these areas interest you please speak to your Commanding Officer or the Wing Training Officer, Squadron Leader Catherine Llewellyn, for more detail.
CADET TRAINING
Duke of Edinburghs’ Award Scheme
This is a qualification available to all cadets aged 14 and over for enrollment and one which all employers recognise as a significant commitment and achievement. Being a member of the Wing will enable you to progress through this scheme from Bronze to Gold level.
Leadership Training
In the Wing we run two training courses which help you to develop your abilities as a leader. These help you build confidence and enhance your ability to deal with a range of situations. We are currently reviewing both the Junior and Senior NCO Courses to increase the amount of practical training to enhance your experience. We also run the Cadet Methods of Instruction Course to enhance your ability to train other, younger, less experienced cadets.
Outside the Wing there are a number of other courses provided to enhance your skills for example the Qualified Aerospace Instructors Course and the Junior Leaders Courses. These courses expect significant commitment from its cadets over a long period of time. However, the benefits are worth it and external qualifications are also gained.
Subject Training
You will receive training on each parade evening over a range of subjects from learning how to fly an aircraft to understanding how engines work. Each unit will also offer you practical training from first aid to adventure training and fieldcraft activities.
BTEC Level 2 in Teamwork and Personal Development in the Community
This qualification hones your skills in leadership, teamwork, communications, problem solving, and fitness.
You’ll be doing a mix of theory and practical work (including adventure training activities), and come away with really useful life skills too – like how to write a good CV, interviewing techniques, communication, first aid, adventure training, health and nutrition.
BTEC First Diploma in Aviation Studies (Level 2)
This qualification will be awarded to you when you have completed the Master Air Cadet classification.
St John’s Ambulance certificate in Youth First Aid and the Heart Foundation Heartstart certificate
BTEC Level 2 in Music for Practical Performance
ADULT STAFF TRAINING
Within Bristol and Gloucestershire Wing we believe that developing our adult staff is extremely important.
When a new member of staff comes into the Wing they will receive an individual induction on their unit as well as the Wing course “BASIC” which covers aspects include our responsibilities under “Duty of Care”. The Wing also provides other staff development courses in various areas including Pre-uniformed courses, Introduction to the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Methods of Instruction and Health and Safety.
There are also a number of external training adult staff can apply for which are available to civilian and uniformed staff including courses in first aid, adventure training and specific aviation and non aviation subject courses. For uniformed staff, courses at RAF Cranwell are provided.
There are opportunities for our adult staff to gain professional qualifications. These qualifications run through an organisation called the Cadet Vocational Qualifications Organisation (CVQO). The qualifications City & Guilds Licentiateship (LCGI), Graduateship (GCGI), and Membership (MCGI), recognise personal achievement and the application of professional knowledge in the workplace, allowing progression to the very highest levels of achievement.
Holders of City & Guilds Senior Awards are entitled to use appropriate post nominal letters (LCGI, GCGI, MCGI) and are invited to attend the annual CVQO graduation ceremony, where they will wear the approved formal dress of a gown, hood and mortar board. Bristol and Gloucestershire Wing are lucky to have active staff many of whom have now gained or working towards these qualifications.