Science, Technology & Engineering
From hands-on projects and competitions, to cyber security training and engineering challenges. All activities are supervised by trained staff.
Engineering
Engineering activities introduce cadets to practical problem solving and design challenges. From building structures and rockets to understanding how aircraft systems work, cadets develop hands-on technical skills in a team environment.
- What to expect: design challenges, practical building tasks, and team problem solving.
- What they learn: engineering principles, teamwork, design thinking, and resilience.
- Progression: badges and awards are available for cadets who develop their engineering skills.
Engineering activities are structured and supervised. They're perfect for cadets who enjoy building, making, and solving technical problems.
Activities connect to real engineering careers in aerospace, manufacturing, and technology sectors.
Interested in joining?
If your child enjoys building, making and problem solving, they don't need prior experience — just curiosity. Start with our joining info or get in touch.
Cyber Security
Cyber security training teaches cadets about online safety, digital skills, and how technology is protected. Activities include code breaking, password security, network basics, and ethical hacking concepts in a safe environment.
- What's covered: online safety, encryption, networks, and digital citizenship.
- Skills developed: logical thinking, attention to detail, and understanding cyber threats.
- Opportunities: cadets can take part in national cyber competitions and challenges.
Cyber security is a rapidly growing field. These skills provide a foundation for careers in tech, defence, and intelligence.
All activities are supervised and follow strict ethical guidelines. We teach responsible use of technology.
STEM Projects
STEM projects give cadets the chance to work on longer-term challenges — from building and launching model rockets, to designing and testing structures. Projects develop planning, teamwork, and the ability to see ideas through to completion.
- Project types: rockets, robotics, electronics, design challenges, and experiments.
- Skills gained: planning, perseverance, practical making, and presenting results.
- Recognition: completed projects can contribute towards STEM badges and awards.
Projects help cadets learn by doing. They apply science and maths in practical, memorable ways.
Working on projects teaches cadets how to collaborate, share ideas, and support each other towards a common goal.
STEM Competitions
Cadets can take part in local, regional and national STEM competitions. These events challenge teams to solve problems, build solutions, and present their work. Competitions develop confidence, teamwork, and resilience under pressure.
- Types of competitions: engineering challenges, cyber security contests, robotics, and science events.
- What cadets gain: competitive experience, presentation skills, and recognition for achievement.
- Support: we prepare teams with training, equipment, and coaching before competitions.
Competitions help cadets develop resilience and learn how to perform under pressure in a supportive environment.
Whether teams win or learn from the experience, we celebrate effort, improvement, and teamwork.
STEM Careers
STEM activities help cadets explore career options in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. We provide insights into roles in aerospace, defence, engineering, IT, and more through talks, visits, and practical activities.
- Career exposure: talks from industry professionals, site visits, and career guidance.
- Skills for life: problem solving, teamwork, and technical skills valued by employers.
- Pathways: connections to apprenticeships, university courses, and career opportunities.
Meeting professionals and seeing real workplaces helps cadets understand career possibilities and set goals.
Through the RAF Air Cadets, we have links to major STEM employers and organisations across the UK.
