As we bid farewell to 2024, 2286 (Coventry Arden) Squadron takes pride in the exceptional year we've had. From welcoming new recruits to celebrating remarkable achievements in leadership, community service, and personal development, this year has been a testament to the dedication and resilience of our cadets and staff. The journey through 2024 has been filled with growth, innovation, and shared success, shaping an unforgettable chapter in the Squadron’s history.
Spring: New Beginnings and Exceptional Achievements
January: Building Foundations for a Stellar Year
In January, 2286 Squadron set its course for a successful year ahead with our annual planning day, bringing staff and cadets together to set key goals. This collaborative event laid the foundation for a year of growth, focusing on key areas like eSports, space exploration, and leadership development. Six cadets earned their Wing Bronze Radio course badges, reinforcing the Squadron's commitment to providing skills that last a lifetime.
The month also saw the Squadron’s open evening for Intake 2401, which welcomed a new group of recruits, and two cadets took their first steps toward joining the Wing Band. As we prepared for our Annual Formal Inspection, January became a month of laying the groundwork for an exciting year to come.
February: Growth, Learning, and New Horizons
February was a month of significant growth and exciting opportunities for 2286 Squadron. The Annual Formal Inspection, a key event in the RAFAC calendar, was held this month, with cadets demonstrating their skills in various disciplines. From drill and life skills to space and STEM-based activities, the Squadron displayed its well-rounded approach to cadet training. This event was a proud moment for everyone involved, with positive feedback from senior officers, highlighting the professionalism of the cadets.
Alongside this, our cadets were busy pursuing qualifications and broadening their skill sets. Six cadets successfully completed the Wing Bronze Radio course, while others earned their Young First Aid qualifications. Additionally, the Squadron launched its new space syllabus, where cadets delved into space science, learning about space exploration, the challenges of establishing moon bases, and the future of space travel. As a part of this, we also engaged in the GameBlast event, where our cadets participated in eSports challenges, combining gaming skills with charity fundraising for a meaningful cause. February truly encapsulated the Squadron's diverse range of activities, from leadership training to space exploration.
March: A Month of Skill-Building and Team Spirit
March was a busy month of achievement and development at 2286 Squadron, beginning with the arrival of Intake 2401 on their first night with us. Their induction marked the start of their journey, and they were quickly integrated into Squadron life. The month was filled with various opportunities for both new and returning cadets to develop their skills, from training in shooting and road marching to academic study.
The Squadron hosted its second air rifle train-and-shoot day of the year, with cadets earning their blue trained shot and bronze marksman badges. We also participated in the Wing 20km road march, where several cadets earned their blue road marching badge. In addition, six cadets completed the Wing Bronze Radio Course, gaining their bronze radio badge. Two of our NCOs excelled on the Wing Senior NCO Course, earning their silver leadership badges. Our cadets also celebrated Ramadan with a fast day and iftar meal, reinforcing the Squadron’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
As part of our academic curriculum, cadets studied Basic Navigation, Aircraft Handling & Flying Techniques, and other aviation subjects. These lessons took a hands-on approach, with cadets marshalling each other around the parade square and using VR simulators to learn aerobatic techniques. March also saw a wet and challenging Silver DofE practice expedition, but despite the weather, our cadets persevered and demonstrated great resilience. The month was a perfect example of the Squadron’s commitment to both personal and team growth.
April: Recognition, Team Success, and Leadership
April was a month of recognition and achievement for 2286 Squadron, marked by both individual cadet milestones and collective success. Sgt Dhayaparan’s graduation from the Qualified Aerospace Instructors Course (QAIC) was a momentous occasion, as he became the first cadet from the Squadron to complete the rigorous course. While he stepped down from his role as Lord Mayor's Cadet, his leadership and commitment continued to shine, leaving a lasting legacy within the Squadron. Sgt O'Connell also completed the Gold First Aid Course, becoming one of the top 10 qualified first aid instructors in the Wing, and jumped straight into instructing his first SJA Youth First Aid course for the Squadron.
The month was also filled with exciting events and accomplishments. The Sector Shooting Competition saw some stellar performances from our cadets, securing a well-deserved 2nd place finish. Our cadets participated in the Basic Skills Weekend, putting their navigation and campcraft skills to the test in practical exercises. The Fieldcraft Training Day at Bramcote Barracks with 121 Squadron was a key training experience, where cadets learned valuable fieldcraft skills. The Bronze DofE Expedition was a sunny and enjoyable experience, in contrast to the previous Silver expedition’s tough weather. Additionally, cadets took part in the RAF Warma road marches, completing their Bronze Road Marching Badge. April also saw a significant promotion, with Sgt O'Connell being promoted to FS O'Connell.
Summer: Leadership, Opportunity, and Community Service
May: Achievement, Alumni, and Opportunity
The achievements of 2286 Squadron shone brightly this May, with three cadets honored at Buckingham Palace as they received their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards. This prestigious occasion celebrated their commitment and resilience, marking a proud milestone for the Squadron. At the same time, three of our alumni graduated from RAF Basic Training, taking their first steps into careers with the Royal Air Force and setting a stellar example for current cadets.
On the home front, the cadets embraced a variety of developmental opportunities. They visited Binley Fire Station, gaining hands-on insights into the life of first responders. Additionally, cadets refined their shooting skills with long and short-range marksmanship training on the L98A2 rifle, while parade nights focused on academic studies and steady progress toward the iDEA award.
June: Preparation, Promotion, and Sporting Success
June saw a dynamic mix of events and achievements, showcasing the leadership and talent within 2286 Squadron. Cadets seized the opportunity to develop their skills as the Squadron embarked on preparations for the upcoming Wing Training Day. Leadership training took center stage, alongside tryouts for the drill squad and banner team, fostering teamwork and precision. Many of our senior cadets underwent application and boarding for Corporal, with Cpl Brooks and Cpl Myles earning well-deserved promotions for their dedication and leadership, and we welcomed both Cpl Hands and intake 24/02 into the Squadron, making us one of the top 10 largest Squadrons in the West Midlands.
Sporting excellence also shone in June, with cadets participating in Wing Athletics and progressing to represent Warwickshire & Birmingham at the Regional Championships. Among them, Cdt Corcoran delivered another impressive medal haul, further demonstrating the Squadron's athletic prowess. Additionally, cadets attended the Wing Initial Weapons Training Course for the L98A2 rifle, broadening their skills and qualifications, and some of Team 2286 even joined the national cadet contingent to enjoy the Trooping the Colour in London - even reporting the King waved at them!
July: New Heights, New Achievements
July was a standout month for 2286 Squadron, filled with firsts, celebrations, and development opportunities. The month began with 23/01 passing out of recruit training and 24/01 being officially enrolled into the RAF Air Cadets following their successful completion of Phase One recruit training. These new cadets joined the ranks during a busy period that saw cadets and staff attend summer camps at RAF Leeming, Boscombe Down, and the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT), where they also enjoyed a Squadron day trip to experience the world’s largest military airshow. Additionally, three cadets took their first flight at RAF Cosford, a memorable milestone in their cadet journey.
The Squadron also welcomed a special visit from the Regional Commandant, who was thoroughly impressed by our cadets’ enthusiasm and achievements. This month saw many awards and certifications presented, including Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards, swimming proficiency badges, and blue leadership qualifications. Cadets also completed St John’s Ambulance Essential First Aid Training, further broadening their skills and readiness to help others.
July wrapped up with the reopening of our outdoor classroom, now featuring an outdoor chess area, and our annual water night—an exhilarating series of leadership exercises that ended in plenty of splashes and smiles.
Autumn: Recognition, Innovation, and New Milestones
August: Training, Triumphs, and Teamwork
By August, 2286 Squadron was fully immersed in Wing Training Day preparation, with cadets sharpening their skills across drill, banner, first aid, leadership, music, STEM, and space disciplines. To foster some friendly competition and hone parade skills, the Squadron introduced an inter-flight drill competition, which saw Atlas Flight emerge victorious. Meanwhile, cadets advanced their qualifications, completing a bronze Cyber course, earning blue radio badges, and receiving SJA Youth First Aid certificates.
The camp season continued with incredible experiences. Cadets and staff attended RAF Northolt, enjoying the prestigious opportunity to have afternoon tea at the RAF Club in London, and took part in a gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Expedition and Adventure Training Camp at Fairbourne. The Squadron also delivered a silver DofE Expedition in the Peak District under challenging conditions—this time trading the spring’s torrential rain for a hot and dry summer adventure. Cadets worked tirelessly on their marksmanship, completing live fire on the L98A2 and earning blue road marching badges, a testament to their determination and progress.
In a personal achievement, OC Flt Lt Julie Seymour successfully completed her Level 2 qualification in Understanding Autism after a year of dedicated independent study.
September: Celebrations and Community Contributions
September was a month of celebration, progression, and teamwork for 2286 Squadron. The highlight was our annual Awards Evening, where cadets and staff were recognized for their dedication and achievements. Among the many awards in September, FS O'Connell’s promotion to Cadet Warrant Officer was a proud milestone, marking his exceptional leadership and commitment to the Squadron.
The Squadron played a key role in supporting the European HADO Championships held in Coventry. Cadets and staff worked tirelessly to assist in hosting international teams, ensuring the event ran smoothly and showcasing the professionalism of the RAF Air Cadets. September also saw us host a Wing Bronze Radio Course, where our cadets earned their bronze radio badges, while also assisting other Squadrons with their training needs.
On parade nights, cadets continued their preparation for Wing Training Day, which was postponed to October. We also held our final open evening of the year, welcoming 24/03 recruits to the Squadron family.
October: Success, Skills, and Spooktacular Fun
2286 Squadron experienced a packed October, full of milestones, competition, and camaraderie. Early in the month, 24/02 recruits were officially enrolled after completing their Phase 1 test night, joining the Squadron as full members. At the Winter Warma event, cadets tackled the road march with grit and determination, earning medals and road marching badges for their efforts.
The highlight of October was Wing Training Day, where the Squadron not only defended their title but extended their dominance by winning the prestigious Per Ardua Cup. This award, given to the best-performing Squadron, highlighted 2286’s outstanding efforts, either winning or achieving a top-three placement in two-thirds of the competitions. The celebrations continued the next evening with an outdoor party, complete with karaoke and dancing, as the Squadron came together to honour their success.
As the month progressed, cadets sharpened their fieldcraft skills during a joint training day with 121 Squadron and took to the skies during first flights at RAF Cosford. The go-karting session in Warwick offered a fun break from the busy schedule, and the month wrapped up with a Halloween-themed evening led by the NCOs, featuring costumes, games, and leadership challenges and ending October on a fun and festive note.
Winter: Reflection, Celebration, and Future Aspirations
November: Honouring Service and Driving Ambition
November was a month of reflection and reward at 2286 Squadron. The month began with two cadets earning their Blue Aviation Badges after their first flights at RAF Cosford, completing the final component required for this milestone.
Remembrance activities took pride of place, with cadets volunteering for the Poppy Appeal, forming a guard of honour at a Coventry City football match, and participating in the Coventry Remembrance Day Parade. These events highlighted the cadets’ respect for the Armed Forces and their willingness to give back to the community.
Cadet achievements reached new heights, with Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards, Blue Road Marching badges, and Bronze First Aid badges being awarded. The Squadron’s leadership team expanded as four cadets earned promotion to Corporal after a competitive boarding process. November also brought academic success, as senior cadets tackled advanced studies, and STEM inspiration, thanks to a visit from the Royal Navy Engagement Team.
December: Wrapping Up the Year in Style
December capped off a phenomenal year for 2286 Squadron with leadership, accomplishments, and plenty of festive cheer. The month began with the Squadron’s leadership team proudly representing the Wing at the Wales & West Regional Leadership Championships, showcasing their skills and teamwork on a prestigious stage. One of our cadets also attended CyberFirst training with the Wing team, earning his Bronze Cyber badge after completing the iDEA Award.
Academically, the senior and master groups excelled, passing Advanced Radio and Radar to complete several classification levels, while the leading group successfully tackled Principles of Flight, with their final module planned for the spring. Those who supported the European HADO Championships in September were rewarded with a bespoke session at the UK HADO Centre, receiving coaching from the UK HADO team itself. The month also celebrated individual achievements, as Sgt Ryan earned her Methods of Instruction qualification and FS Amelia Van Ristell Hall completed her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Festivities filled the final week, with a Christmas Quiz featuring creative rounds like Christmas spice tasting and charades, followed by the annual Laser Quest Championships, where Turkowski claimed the title of sharpshooter. The year ended on a high note with the Squadron’s Christmas Party, hosted by REME in their bar and complete with Domino’s pizza, pool, and the ever-popular karaoke—a fitting conclusion to a year of hard work, teamwork, and triumphs.
Looking Ahead to 2025
While 2024 has been a year of outstanding milestones for 2286 Squadron, we’re eager to see what 2025 will bring. Our cadets and staff are ready to tackle new challenges, explore fresh opportunities, and continue to grow as a team. If you’d like to be part of the action, don’t miss our January open evening (see the events tab above) — your first step toward a future of adventure, learning, and achievement.
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