871 Squadron encourages all cadets to take part in the huge array of activities on offer. You could find yourself flying or gliding at weekends and even gain a scholarship to get a free Private Pilot's Licence (PPL). Sharpen your skills with target shooting to gain marksmen badges and compete in competitions. The ATC offers a large amount of adventure training where you could be canoeing, climbing or mountain biking at various locations in the UK. 871 currently participates in the Duke of Edinburgh award which is highly recognised and great fun too! Cadets have the opportunity to attend camps both in the UK and abroad. Sports, drill and academic studies are also on the timetable which has a huge input from the cadets. There's never a dull moment.

You can join when you're 13 and usually leave when you're 20. The latest age you can join is 17.

Each parade night only lasts two hours. This gives you plenty of time to do homework, revision and deal with other commitments. A lot of our cadets find time around GCSEs, A Levels and even Degrees as well as being involved in other sports and youth clubs.

Yes, there are lots of opportunities to do fun activities as well as the more serious side of things, our main focus is that you enjoy everything we do as well as improving and gaining new skills.

Most likely, as we are a disciplined organisation it is sometimes necessary to shout when doing drill. Don't worry though, it won't be all the time and you'll be with other cadets. Our staff and cadets are friendly really and our main focus is for you to enjoy yourself, and not to be scared of us!

There are a huge amount of opportunities to get involved in adventure training, some of these are overseas such as Nordic Skiing and marches, but the most popular option is the Duke of Edinburgh Award which entails overnight expeditions; they're great fun. There are lots of other expeditions that pop up regularly too.

It only costs a few pounds a month to belong to the ATC which is great value for money considering what you get out of it. The RAF funds parts of your training too so opportunities are open to everyone!

No, your basic uniform is free and worth around £200 so you are expected to look after it. You will need to purchase parade shoes and boots as well as any other accessories you may choose, these are relatively cheap though.

Yes! Everyone is very friendly and you'll always feel welcome. On your first night someone will look after you and introduce you to everyone, there is bound to be someone your age and in the same situation, and as we're all cadets we have loads in common!

Flying and gliding places open up around once a month, there are limited places but as other cadets focus on other activities you'll be able to take their place. We always allocate places fairly and there will be loads of opportunities!

Absolutely! If you're disabled you are very welcome to join us. Unfortunately, you may not be able to take part in some activities but we'll always assess the situation responsibly. You are more than welcome to discuss this with us.