Friday 11 May 2012

Cadet CV

Sgt Christopher Dolphin was last night presented with a Cadet CV which is awarded to cadets when they have achieved the following goals:
  • Flown in RAF training aircraft as a pilot under instruction showing confidence and ability to follow precise instructions.
  • Taken part in Target Shooting which requires self-discipline and an ability to follow exact training and instructions and good Hand-eye co-ordination.
  • Achieved a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award - this award requires motivation and persistence and also demonstrates the ability to work as part of a team. It includes sections that require voluntary service to others, skills and physical achievements as well as an unaccompanied expedition in a small group which demands resilience and courage to complete.
  • Attended a residential camp demonstrating personal organisation and the ability to interact with others.
Sgt Dolphin has achieved all of the above and in addition has completed a Gliding Scholarship which culminated in a solo flight in a Vigilant motor glider at 645 VGS, RAF Topcliffe which he achieved at the age of 16 (i.e. before he can legally drive a car on the road).

Tuesday 8 May 2012

Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions

On the 5th and 6th May, nine cadets from 361 Squadron packed their rucksacks to take part in Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions in the Hadrian's Wall area in Northumberland starting in Haydon Bridge and finishing at Stonehaugh (including an overnight camp and approximately six hours of hiking on each of the two days).

The participants must be self sufficient throughout the expedition, carrying all their camping kit (including tents, sleeping bags and food) and preparing their own hot meals as well as navigating a route using map and compass. (Sat-Nav is not allowed!) Each participant must complete both a practice and an actual expedition to qualify for this part of the Duke of Edinburgh scheme.
Pictured above at the start of the expedition are cadets Robbie Graham, Lloyd and Harvey Simpson, Josh Gordon, Matthew Purdy, Paul Dixon, Alice McGregor, Ellisha Clelland and Sam Hogg. (Cadets Graham, Gordon and Purdy completed their actual expeditions whilst the remaining six took part in a practice expedition.)