Navigation skills and outdoor expedition training features throughout a cadets time in the ‘Air Training Crops’ starting from their First Class initial Expedition training through to been able to achieve their ‘Basic Expedition Leader Award’ once they reach 18 years old.
211 (Newbury) squadron took some of their cadets to the Brecon Beacons to apply their navigation skills in a practical environment in preparation for their Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. CI Josh Spence, a civilian instructor at the squadron and also a ‘Mountain Leader’ provides an overview of what the cadets got up to:
“Rain; the sight which greeted us early on Saturday morning when arriving at the unit to go off to South Wales for a day of navigation skills and hillwalking practice. The two hour bus journey was however rewarded with clearing skies from the moment we set foot on the hills, the cloud eventually lifted and the stunning scenery was revealed for all to see. Of course, this was not just a jaunt in the countryside however! The cadets who attended spent the day practicing their navigation skills with the instructor merely playing a supervisory role.
All in all then, a strong days training to which we at 211 (Newbury) ATC would recommend all cadets try their hands at as it offers safe and enjoyable learning in the most picturesque parts of the UK.”
A number of different topics were covered on the day ranging from map reading, compass bearings through to team work and the importance of been able to know where you are when out walking.
Interested in the outdoor environment? Ask your squadron staff for more information on the adventure training opportunities available such as the ‘National Navigation Award Scheme’ (NNAS), ‘National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme’ (NICAS) and other exciting adventure training opportunities. Are you on target for adventure training within the ATC? Why not take a look and see.