More ACO, ATC & Squadron Structure

The Air Training Corps (ATC)

Part of the Air Cadet Organization (ACO) which also includes RAF Sections of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), the Air Training Corps is a voluntary youth organization supported by the Royal Air Force. With almost 41,000 members, aged from 13 to 20 years, within over 1,000 Squadrons, the ATC is one of the country's premier youth organizations and the world's largest youth air training organization. The Cadets are supported by a volunteer Staff of nearly 10,000 plus 5,000 Civilian Committee Members. The Air Training Corps (ATC) was formed by Royal Warrant in 1941 and sprang from the Air Defence Cadet Corps, founded in 1938 by the Air League. Although initially formed to meet the needs of a nation at war, the Corps continues to thrive as it enters the 21st Century. There are now independent Air Cadet Organizations in many other countries throughout the World. Today it continues to thrive and helps a new generation of young people, aged 13 to 22, to find a positive purpose in life.

The Aims of the Air Training Corps are:
1) To promote and encourage among young people a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force.
2) To provide training which will be useful in the Services and civilian life.
3) To foster the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship.

The ATC Motto is: 'Venture Adventure'

The Air Training Corps is the largest operator of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme. Perhaps that's not so surprising when you learn that HRH Prince Philip is the ATC's Commodore-in-Chief, taking a keen interest in the organization and its members. Air Cadets get the opportunity of flying in RAF and commercial aircraft - many progressing to achieve Flying Scholarships and their Private Pilots Licence (PPL). The Corps, which has charitable status, is not a recruiting organization but many members do go on to have careers in the Royal Air Force, other Services or civilian life. Currently approximately 34% of all aircrew (pilots, navigators and NCO aircrew) and 20% of Officers are ex-Cadets.