Welcome to 2121 (Abingdon) Squadron RAF Air Cadets, otherwise known as Abingdon Air Cadets. Located on the outskirts of Dalton Barracks (the old RAF Abingdon airbase) the Squadron attracts cadets and adult volunteers from the surrounding villages of Shippon, Wootton, Cumnor, Marcham and the town of Abingdon itself to name a few.
The Air Cadets offers its members a wide range of exciting and unique activities which are designed to challenge and develop the cadets. From Flying and Gliding to Adventure Training there is an activity to meet a wide range of interests. The Air Cadets also offers a range of qualifications such as BTEC’s in Aviation Studies and Music which can be achieved by participating in our Squadron.
As a cadet you will also experience what life is like in the Royal Air Force by attending residential visits and courses on RAF Stations throughout the UK. There is no obligation to join the RAF if you are a cadet, however many ex-cadets do go on to join the Armed Services.
The Air Cadets is supported by a framework of volunteers who assist in a variety of jobs, from training on a parade night to running activity weekends such as Duke of Edinburgh expeditions or range days. Adults involved in working with cadets are DBS cleared and given training before undertaking any activities.
Air Cadets and volunteer staff from across Thames Valley Wing Air Training Corps gathered at RAF Benson for an evening of celebrations during the annual THRIVE awards.
The THRIVE awards were established three years ago to recognise the achievements and successes of the individuals who support the Air Cadets in Berkshire and Oxfordshire. Hosted by RAF Benson and sponsored by five organisations 33 individuals received recognition on the evening for their efforts across several categories. Continue reading →
On Sunday 20 October 12 Junior Boys and 9 Junior Girls travelled to Tidworth Garrison, Tidworth for the South West Region Inter Wing Junior Football and Hockey Competition.
From the start the competition looked like a non-starter with only 9 girls from a squad of 12 and the boys down to a full starting 11 but only one substitute!, coupled with biblical rain on the journey and the potential of flooding at the venue. The Thames Valley cadets arrived in high spirits ready to face the challenge. Continue reading →
On Saturday 8 October 17 cadets and 3 staff from Thames Valley made the long journey down to HMS Raleigh Cornwall for the South West Region Inter Wing Swimming Championship.
The championship took place on Sunday 9 October; The Thames Valley 17 strong team went up against the best of the other five Wings of South West Region in what proved to be a very close competition with some exceptional swimmers. Continue reading →
Air Cadets and volunteers from across the Thames Valley Wing have been celebrating as they received as part of a national relay the 75th anniversary torch at a ceremony in Windsor on Sunday (21st August).
The 75th anniversary torch arrived from London and South East Region as part of its six-week tour through the country, with cadets, adult volunteers and veterans finding unique and adventurous ways to celebrate its journey. Continue reading →
360 Air Cadets and over 80 adult volunteers from across the Thames Valley Air Cadets came together on Sunday, 22nd May to celebrate the Air Training corps (ATC) 75th Anniversary.
Parading through Windsor and past the Guildhall it was an incredible sight to see the Thames Valley Air Cadets march through the streets and onto the Parish Church in all their splendour. Continue reading →
Marking the 75th anniversary since the formation of the Air Cadet Organisation (ACO) over 75 cadets from across Central and North Sectors in Thames Valley Wing ATC gathered in the Oxford as part of parade and service of remembrance. Continue reading →
On Thursday 18 February 20 cadets from 966 (Wallingford) and 2121 (Abingdon) squadrons visited RAF Benson for the day. A programme of events which involved visiting various parts of the base had been organised to give an overall view of what makes up a modern RAF station. To start the day the cadets visited the Motor Transport section where they were shown the variety of vehicles currently in use, including their participation in the operation of a remote control grab unit for lifting heavy loads on and off of vehicles. The group then split into two groups for alternate visits to the Fire section and Air Traffic Control. Continue reading →
On Sunday, 29 November 127 cadets and 22 staff arrived at RAF Brize Norton to take part in the annual Wing Ten Pin bowling competition.
With teams on the start line ready to roll Squadrons had the opportunity to enter two teams and also compete for the top male and female spot. As cadets took it turn to line up ready for their strikes perhaps more balls entered the gutters than made it to the centre pin! Continue reading →
Commandant’s Air Cadets Commendations of Meritorious Service were given out at this years Thrive Awards, below are the recipients and their citations.
Flying Officer Alex Pye from 211 (Newbury) Squadron has been a member of the Corps serving as a both a Cadet and as a member of staff at 211 (Newbury) Squadron.
A long term supporter and key member of the Squadron he has undertaken all of the duties asked of him with style and is seen as a corner stone of excellence. He is also leading light in bringing archery activities – first to Newbury Squadron through careful negotiation of grant packages – before being an evangelist for the activity Wing-side. Continue reading →