The A.T.C. offers a wide range of opportunities for people between the ages of thirteen and twenty. Not only do you get the chance of flying in two kinds of light aircraft used for Cadet training, you are also able to participate in International Exchanges (IACE), Cross-country skiing in Germany, overseas camps in Cyprus, Gibraltar, the U.S.A. and Canada and a variety of sporting activities in which Cadets compete between themselves and the Armed Forces. All this looks good on your N.R.A., but this is not the only reward at the end of your service as a cadet. You will have had some amazing experiences (like aerobatics in the Bulldog aeroplane, or hilarious summer camps - and the parties!) and have met some amazing people to share them with. Many lifelong friendships are formed through the A.T.C., along with valuable contacts that may help you in later life.

One of my favourite activities is Adventure Training. This usually involves getting wet, scared out of your wits or filthy from head to toe. It includes Canoeing, Abseiling, Gorge walking and orienteering, along with the more military activities such as shooting, fieldcraft and, best of all the mixture- the "Night Ex" an exercise carried out in what seems like the middle of nowhere (usually M.o.D. training areas) and (as the name suggests) in the dark .

At sixteen, I've been a member for nearly three years, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. After a lot of hard work and commitment I was promoted to Corporal in January this year, and in August, to Sergeant. This is an N.C.O. rank (non-commissioned Officer) and involves responsibilities like discipline, administration and general organisation.

Last September I was given the opportunity to do a Basic Glider Training course. This involved training in the Vigilant (a powered glider) up to the "ghosted solo" standard. Anyone in the A.T.C. has the chance of being offered one (now called a Gliding Scholarship), but the chance of doing an Advanced Glider Training course is quite rare, so I was surprised and honoured when I was given one. This time I was trained to Solo standard and to gain my "Gold Wings" I had to complete five solo circuits - completely solo - take off, fly the circuit and land, five times. My first solo was amazing, a totally exhilarating experience, one that I will never forget, no matter how many more I do in the future.

I am now a "STAFF CADET" at " 633 VGS"(this means that I am part of the staff on a volunteer gliding school) and I am being trained for the qualification of Grade 2 Glider Pilot. When I have gained this I will then go to do my Grade 1 which will enable me to fly Cadets on Familiarisation flights, and after that I hope to continue to gain the "C" catorgory instructor wings, which means I can actually train cadets up to the ghosted solo standard.

The A.T.C. is open to anyone over thirteen years old. If you are interested in joining, call into your local A.T.C. headquarters or your nearest Armed Forces careers office and ask for more information.