Ground Training Competition

The Ground Training Competition started in 1998 as a way for CCF (RAF) sections to contest the Air Squadron Trophy.

Getting to the National Competition

To get to the national competition, a section must qualify from a regional competition, such as the "South East Area Ground Training Competition". Each of the areas holds an area ground training competition during either the Autumn or Spring Terms of the school year. The TEST staff from each area tailors the composition and conduct of their competition to meet local needs. In general however, teams of 13 cadets (including one NCO), drawn from all age groups, compete in a round robin of activities that include; RAF knowledge, shooting, drill, first aid, aircraft recognition, command tasks and a fitness test. Although each activity is assessed and a competitive spirit undoubtedly prevails, the emphasis of the competition is on participation and training value.

The National Competition

The first and second placed teams in each of the Area Competitions will be invited to compete in the National Competition which will be normally held in March. This event is run along similar lines to those of the area competitions but is organised by a group selected from the TEST staff of all areas and held at a suitably equipped RAF station.

Air Squadron Day

The overall winning team together with the second and third placed teams will be invited to attend the Air Squadron Day which is held at RAFC Cranwell on the first Sunday in July each year. During the day cadets may be offered flights in aircraft belonging to the Air Squadron members and will attend a formal presentation ceremony.

Requirements for Entry

Each team will comprise one Team Captain (Cpl or above) and 12 other cadets (male or female) who should ideally represent a wide cross-section of age groups within the parent RAF Section. The Team Captains role is to manage the team, to give the orders in the Drill competition and, if he or she wishes, to take part in events. An RAFVR(T) officer should accompany the teams.

Event Instructions

The events and numbers of participating team members are as follows:

These instructions should be fully understood by all team members prior to each event. Some prior training/practice in Drill, First Aid, Aircraft Recognition and the SMEAC Briefing Procedure is recommended. Failure to report on time for any event may result in the Team being awarded no points for that event. The General Fitness test and Command Task will be conducted concurrently as will Aircraft Recognition and the SAT Laser Shooting.

Dress

Teams should arrive with #2 Working Dress, including Wedgwood blue shirt, tie, pullover and shoes or boots. For the General Fitness and Command Task events, sports kit may be worn. All participants must wear #2 Working Dress for the final parade.

ee also

*CCF

Links

* [http://www.airsquadron.org/ Air Squadron] Official website
* [http://www.aircadets.org/ Air Cadets] Official website