Aviation & STEM opportunities
From flying and gliding opportunities (when available), to STEM, Space and Virtual Reality sessions run safely by trained staff.
Flying
Flying opportunities give cadets a taste of what it’s like to be around aircraft and real aviation environments. Depending on availability, cadets may be able to take part in flying experiences arranged through the Air Cadet organisation.
- What to expect: a briefing, safety checks, and a structured plan for the day.
- What they learn: basic aviation principles, airmanship, and how pilots plan and communicate.
- How places work: we advertise slots; cadets sign up and places are allocated fairly.
Flying slots can be limited, so we focus on readiness: attendance, paperwork, and behaviour standards. We’ll communicate timings, kit and expectations clearly in advance.
Activities are supervised and follow clear safety rules. Cadets are briefed before taking part and can opt out at any time.
Interested in joining?
If your child enjoys aviation, they don’t need prior experience — just enthusiasm. Start with our joining info or get in touch.
Gliding
Gliding is one of the most memorable aviation opportunities cadets can experience. When places are available, cadets may travel to a Volunteer Gliding Squadron (VGS) for a structured introduction to flying without an engine.
- What it feels like: quiet, smooth, and surprisingly powerful — you’ll learn how gliders stay airborne.
- What cadets learn: lift, control inputs, lookout, and basic airmanship.
- Progression: badges and training pathways exist (availability varies nationally).
Gliding often involves travel and a full day out. We’ll provide clear joining instructions, kit lists and timings before the event.
Places are limited. We’ll advertise opportunities and allocate fairly based on availability and suitability.
Space
Space activities are a great option for cadets who love science and technology. Sessions can include satellites, rockets, orbits, communication, and how space affects everyday life on Earth.
- Hands-on learning: group challenges, problem solving and practical STEM tasks.
- Skills: teamwork, communication, curiosity, and confidence presenting ideas.
- For parents: these sessions run like structured lessons with clear objectives.
Many topics connect nicely to school science and engineering — brilliant for boosting interest in STEM subjects.
No physical fitness barrier — ideal for cadets who prefer technical and academic challenges.
Virtual Reality
VR can bring aviation and STEM to life — letting cadets explore cockpits, flight principles and teamwork scenarios in a safe, engaging way. It’s especially good for building confidence and “learning by doing”.
- What it looks like: short, supervised sessions with clear learning goals.
- Skills: hand–eye coordination, communication, and decision-making.
- Accessibility: sessions are structured — cadets can opt out at any time.
We keep sessions short and safe. Cadets are briefed on how to use the equipment and supervised throughout.
VR is engaging, but still focused on learning outcomes — teamwork, confidence, and STEM curiosity.
