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𝐆𝐋𝐈𝐃𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐓 𝐑𝐀𝐅 𝐓𝐎𝐏𝐂𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐅𝐄 🛫

Recently, our cadets had the opportunity to complete their first gliding experience with @645 Volunteer Gliding Squadron at RAF Topcliffe. They took to the skies in the Grob Viking T1 glider, learning the basics of unpowered flight and gaining valuable hands-on experience in aviation.

Under the instruction of experienced VGS pilots, cadets were introduced to essential gliding techniques, including launch procedures, basic controls, and landing approaches. This experience forms an important part of their aviation training within the RAF Air Cadets.

A big thank you to the team at 645 VGS for making this training possible. We look forward to seeing our cadets continue their progression in the air! ✈️

Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets
North Region – Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Regional Commandant North – Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
North of England RFCA
Liz Twist MP

𝐁𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐙𝐄 𝐖𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 🛫

Last weekend, cadets from 1409 Squadron attended the 642 Astra Ground School at RAF Leeming to participate in Bronze Wings Training.

The training covered essential topics, including the principles of flight, navigation techniques, and airmanship. These foundational skills are crucial for cadets working towards their Bronze Wings qualification.

This opportunity provided valuable insight into aviation theory and practical knowledge, helping cadets progress in their training and development within the Air Training Corps.

We appreciate the support from 642 Astra Squadron and RAF Leeming for facilitating this educational experience.

Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets
North Region – Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Regional Commandant North – Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
North of England RFCA
Liz Twist MP

𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐎𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐀𝐓 𝟏𝟒𝟎𝟗! 🎖️

It’s with great pride that we announce the following promotions at 1409 (Consett) Squadron over the past few weeks.

These cadets have consistently demonstrated outstanding dedication, leadership, and commitment throughout their time with us, and we’re excited to see them take on new responsibilities within the squadron.

👏 Cdt Rose – 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹
👏 Cdt Pears – 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹
👏 Cdt Pearce – 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹
👏 Sgt Severs – 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘁

Each of these cadets has shown great growth in their leadership abilities, teamwork, and personal development. Now in the rank of Corporal, Cpl Rose, Cpl Pears, and Cpl Pearce will take on new roles guiding and mentoring fellow cadets, while Sgt Severs, now promoted to Flight Sergeant, will take on an even greater leadership responsibility, continuing to inspire and support the squadron.

FS Severs also received her Senior cadet classification, well done!

These promotions reflect not only the hard work of the cadets but also the values and skills they embody: commitment, discipline, and teamwork. We look forward to seeing you all thrive in these new roles!

Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets
North Region – Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Regional Commandant North – Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
North of England RFCA
Liz Twist MP

𝐀𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐒 🏆

Congratulations to our Cadets who have been awarded new badges and qualifications, showcasing their dedication to training and skill development.

🏅 Sgt Severs – Bronze CREST Award
🏅 Sgt Kitchener – Intermediate Swimming Competency
🏅 Cpl Pears – Bronze CREST Award & Essential First Aid
🏅 Cdt Pearson – Bronze Cyber Award & Blue Wings
🏅 Cdt McNeil – Leading Classification
🏅 Cdt Bromley – Senior Classification

These awards reflect hard work across multiple disciplines, from STEM and cyber training to aviation, lifesaving skills, and leadership development. Well done to all—your efforts are a credit to the squadron!

Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets
North Region – Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Regional Commandant North – Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
North of England RFCA
Liz Twist MP

𝐀𝐓𝐂 𝐒𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐘 🔴

On the 2nd February, Cadets and staff from 1409 (Consett) Squadron gathered at Christ Church, Consett, to commemorate ATC Sunday, marking the anniversary of the Air Training Corps and reflecting on its history and values.

ATC Sunday is an important occasion for cadets across the country, celebrating the formation of the Air Training Corps in 1941. The service provided an opportunity to recognize the achievements of past and present cadets while reaffirming the squadron’s commitment to teamwork, leadership, and service to the community.

This year’s service was particularly special as the squadron’s new banner was formally ordained, a significant moment for all involved. The banner represents the squadron’s identity, heritage, and commitment to service, and will be proudly carried on future parades and ceremonial events.

Thank you to Christ Church, Consett, for hosting the service and to everyone who attended in support of the squadron on this important occasion.

Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets
North Region – Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Regional Commandant North – Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
North of England RFCA
Liz Twist MP

𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐒𝐓 𝐅𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐂𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐒✈️

Some of our cadets recently experienced their first flight in the Grob Tutor with 11 AEF at RAF Leeming. This key milestone in their cadet journey introduced them to the fundamentals of powered flight and the operations of a military airfield.

Following a pre-flight briefing, the cadets suited up and took to the skies, affording the opportunity to take control of the aircraft under the supervision of a qualified instructor. Some experienced basic maneuvers, gaining confidence and an understanding of flight dynamics, whilst other chose to experience aerobatics!

Thank you to 11 AEF for providing this valuable experience, helping to develop the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.

Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets
North Region – Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Regional Commandant North – Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
North of England RFCA
Liz Twist MP

𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐒𝐓 𝐀𝐈𝐃 ✈️🚨

Over the past few weeks, our cadets have successfully completed their Essential First Aid Course, gaining practical knowledge in CPR, wound treatment, managing unconscious casualties, and responding to medical emergencies.

The course covers key first aid principles, ensuring cadets are equipped with the necessary skills to assist in emergency situations. This qualification enhances their capability to respond effectively both within the cadet environment and in everyday life.

Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets
North Region – Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Regional Commandant North – Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
North of England RFCA
Liz Twist MP

𝐅𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐒𝐄🛡️🎖️

We’re incredibly proud to announce that all cadets who attended yesterday’s Blue Leadership Course, held at 1409 (Consett) Squadron, and joined by cadets from 1313 Whickham Squadron have successfully completed and passed the RAF Air Cadets Foundation Leadership Blue Badge Course, earning their Blue Leadership Badges! 🌟👏

This Foundation Leadership Course introduces cadets to the core principles of leadership and teaches the practical application of SMEAC (Situation, Mission, Execution, Any Questions, Check Understanding) in real-world leadership scenarios.💡

Leadership is a cornerstone of the Air Cadet experience and one of our most important training aims. As cadets progress, they take on additional responsibilities and gain opportunities to develop self-confidence and strengthen their leadership skills. This course has equipped our cadets with the foundation they need to excel as leaders, both within the cadet program and in their wider lives. 💪

Our cadet leaders and NCO’s play a vital role in the smooth running of activities, the preparation of training programs, and in mentoring and guiding their peers. They embody the spirit of teamwork and dedication that makes the RAF Air Cadets so exceptional.

A huge congratulations to all cadets from 1409 (Consett) Squadron and 1313 (Whickham) Squadron for this outstanding achievement! 🎉 We would also like to thank CWO Valentine from 1114 Gosforth Squadron for assisting with the delivery of this event!

Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets
North Region – Royal Air Force Air Cadets
Regional Commandant North – Air Cadets
Commandant Air Cadets
North of England RFCA
Liz Twist MP