Cadets also get the chance to go gliding, usually at 662 Volunteer Gliding School based at RM Condor in Arbroath. The cadets fly the
Viking Glider with the winch launch being one of the best 'roller coaster' rides you can get!
Following a structured programme cadets learn the basic principles of how to fly the glider. The GIC 1 usually takes 20 minutes flying time or 3 launches and teaches the use of the elevators to control the pitch of the aircraft. This is often a cadet's first ever experience in a glider and is a gradual introduction to flying.
The GIC2 is a continuation of GIC 1 and takes about a further 25 minutes or another 4 launches. Here the aircraft’s pitch is revised and then the use of ailerons to control roll is taught. The various cockpit instruments are also explained to the cadet.
The final part of the GIC syllabus is the GIC 3 which takes an additional 30 minutes or 5 launches. Here the use of the rudder is taught to control yaw. Pitch and Roll are also revised and the cadet may be asked to attempt a selection of various attitudes. If time permits a gentle stall may be demonstrated.
FLYING
We aim to get cadets flying at least once per year. Cadets go to RAF Leuchars in Fife for Air Experience Flying with 12 Sqn AEF. Flying the
Grob Tutor cadets get a flight of about 25 minutes although the luckier cadets have had flights of 50 minutes! During the flight cadets get the chance to take the control and fly the aircraft themselves. Additionally, those braver cadets can also ask for aerobatics and find themselves looking at the world from a completely new perspective!
Duke of Edinburgh's Award (D of E Award)
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The Air Cadets is the biggest user of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The D of E Award as it is often called is a nationwide scheme that enables young people to get a qualification, gain many skills and above all make new friends and have a laugh. There are three levels of awards, Bronze, Silver and Gold.
Each level has four main elements: Volunteering, Physical, Skill and Expedition. For the Gold Award you also have to complete a residential task were you stay and work away from home. You have to be 14 to enrol on the D of E scheme at Bronze level, 15 for Silver level and 16 for Gold. The entire scheme will take about a year for each level.
The Squadron is an active participant in sports at various levels, where cadets can gain recognition for themselves, their Squadron, Wing, Region and can even be selected to represent the Corps.
As well as athletics, cross country, football, hockey, netball, rugby and swimming, there is also a huge variety of other sports participated in at Squadron and Wing levels These tend to be played more for local pride and fun rather than being truly competitive; it does not matter if you are not designed to be the next Olympic star - enjoy yourself!