Below you will find a list of the projects we are currently running on the Squadron. When cadets join the ATC they are given a choice of project to join for a set period, they then go though training on that subject and can then choose again. We run projects every Monday between April and September.
Fitness
The Fitness project was created on Squadron to enable the cadets if interested, to maintain and improve their standard of general fitness. On project evenings the cadets work on all of the muscle groups in the body during the circuit session. The circuit session includes cardiovascular exercises as well as polymetrics. Each session is progressively more difficult. For a new cadet joining the project a fitness assessment is carried out.
Engineering
The engineering project is run by Civilian Instructors Currie & Pye and undertakes a wide range of activities, from the restoration of an ex-army tank, to the repair and redesign of land yachts.
We as cadets have learnt a lot about engineering from basic skills such as painting to more specialist trade skills including maintenance of squadron vehicles and buildings
Aero Modelling
The aero modelling project build aircraft model kits. These range from very small jet fighters to large bombers and airliners. The Sqn has a large collection of models waiting to be built and also the kit to build them with.
Marksmanship
The marksmanship project concentrate on target shooting on the Sqn 15m .22 range. This involves working on their Skill at Arms and theory of shooting. The Sqn run inter-flight shooting competitions and also enter at least one team into the Wing competition every year.
I.T
The IT project is responsible for the maintenance of the Squadrons Website, computers and network. During the project the cadets learn basic HTML, Visual Basic and learn how to use Local/wireless Area Networks.
Radios
The radio project runs and maintains the Squadrons UHF, VHF, car mounted and handheld radios. They also get qualified as radio operators, which enable them to use radios on cadet events.
Aircraft Recognition
Aircraft Recognition is the art of seeing an aircraft, and being able to tell exactly what it is! Sounds boring but actually is quite good fun. In competitions the picture will appear, show for up to 3 seconds then disappear again, then you have too write down the aircrafts details. Plt Off Alex Pye leads this project, which is proving popular - but also very successful amongst the cadets.
Remote Control Plane
The Squadron has its own Remote Control Plane, which we fly from a local airfield. It has 2 controllers so cadets with no experience can have a go themselves with an instructor "shadowing them". It's a very manoeuvrable plane and can perform aerobatics.
Fieldcraft
The fieldcraft project is responsible for planning and running all the Squadrons fieldcraft training. They also receive lectures on more advanced fieldcraft and tactics. When the Sqn go on exercise the fieldcraft project usually play the role of the enemy and take on more advanced objectives.
Survival Skills
The Survival Skills project concentrates on learning skills that would be used in pure survival situations. Their syllabus includes fire, food, water and shelter. It also includes many exercises where the cadets have to survive for the weekend with minimum kit and assistance.
Drill & Leadership
The D&L Project is aimed at the senior cadets in the squadron and helps them develop their leadership skills by a number of means, including presentations, sports & through drill. Last year it ran very successfully, and their are plans afoot to run it again this year.
Ghillie Suits
A Ghillie suit is a suit, which blends in with the foliage around it. They were first used by Scottish gamekeepers and then snipers. We use them on exercise to help us hide from the staff and sneak up on our objectives. The Ghillie suit project usually design and build at least one suit each over the project period.
Geoproject
Led by Plt Off Robinson who specialises in Geographical Information Systems, the Geo Project looks at how maps are produced, and their uses in the everyday lives. It also looks at maps within the armed forces, and their application in conflict and peacetime. By the end of the project, the cadets have a firm grasp of mapping technologies and techniques as well as manual & digital map making.