New Zealand Air Training Corps

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New Zealand Air Training Corps
New Zealand Air Training Corps.png
Air Training Corps Crest
Active1941 - present
Country New Zealand
AllegianceHM The Queen
BranchAviation
TypeVolunteer Youth Organisation
Size(As of 1st June 2021)
49 Squadrons
- 1870 Cadets
- 202 Commissioned Officers
- 14 Officer Cadets
- 133 Supplementary Staff
Part ofNew Zealand Cadet Forces
HeadquartersTrentham Military Camp
Nickname(s)ATC
Air Cadets
Blue Cadets
Motto(s)"We Train to Serve"
Websitewww.cadetforces.org.nz
Commanders
Minister of DefenceHon Peeni Henare
Chief of Defence ForceAir Force Ensign of New Zealand.svg Air Marshal Kevin Short
Commandant NZCFAir Force Ensign of New Zealand.svg Wing Commander Mark Henderson, RNZAF
Executive Officer NZCFAir Force Ensign of New Zealand.svg Squadron Leader Bruce Sinclair, RNZAF
Assistant CommandantWing Commander Andrew Horst, NZCF
Warrant Officer Cadet ForcesCadet Warrant Officer Sophia Wells
Insignia
EnsignNew Zealand Air Training Corps Ensign.jpg
Air Cadet LogoAir Cadets Logo

The New Zealand Air Training Corps (also known as Air Cadets and ATC) is one of the three corps in the New Zealand Cadet Forces, the other two being the Sea Cadet Corps and New Zealand Cadet Corps. It is funded in partnership between the RNZAF and communities, and its members are civilians. Members have no obligation to head into the regular force, however, some do choose to join the New Zealand Defence Force. Unlike the United States Civil Air Patrol, service as an ATC cadet does not translate into higher pay, rank, or seniority in the NZDF. The mission of New Zealand Air Training Corps is to develop and enable self- disciplined, confident and responsible young people. The vision is to prepare New Zealand’s successful leaders of tomorrow.[1]

As of 2021 the Air Training Corps currently has approximately 2,000 personnel, including 202 Commissioned Officers.[2]

History[]

British Roots - 1938[]

Air Training Corps personnel 1960s era

In the late 1930’s with the increase of military aircraft technology and the decrease of war-time resources the Royal Air Force was faced with a problem of finding large numbers of suitable recruits.  To overcome this problem the Air League of the British Empire launched its Air Defence Cadet Corps in 1938. In February 1940 the Air Defence Cadet Corps was renamed the Air Training Corps.

They were run in schools with the aim to train boys 16-17.5 years old so they could enter the RAF at the age of 18 and not have to go through basic training. Its purpose was to train potential airmen, basic knowledge and provide an insight into Air Force work to prepare young men for the Air Force when they were old enough.

Foundation and WWII - 1941[]

The first proposal to form an Air Corps in New Zealand came in August 1940 from the Governor General, Lord Galway. Early the following year, a review was made of the manpower position in relation to aircrew requirements and it appeared that by the end of 1942 difficulty would be experienced in obtaining the required number of recruits.

Authority was given by War Cabinet in February 1941, to proceed with the formation of an Air Cadet Training Corps, the name of the orginisation being finally standardised as the Air Training Corps. “Town“ and “School“ units were set up in major cities, training young men between the ages of 16 1/2 and 18. The first squadron was No 1 SQN in wellington. At a time when New Zealand was considered to be at risk from Japanese invasion and the British were not in a position to help. Its purpose was to train potential airmen in basic airmanship and provide an insight into Air Force work to prepare young men for the RNZAF when they became of age.

The ATC peaked during World War II at approximately 9,200 cadets and had provided 3,500 recruits to the RNZAF. By the end of the war unit numbers had risen to 105 town units and 64 school units. However in August 1945 the war ended and unit and cadet numbers began to decline.

Post WWII and Compulsive Military Training - 1950[]

The introduction of Compulsory Military Training brought a period of crisis for the ATC. If the RNZAF could get sufficient recruits from interested CMT trainees there would be little need for an ATC at all. A series of conferences were held to decide the future of the ATC. Premises were in poor shape, equipment was short, and there was a serious shortage of instructors. It was decided that the Corps lacked good officers, and that the regular force did an insufficient amount to assist. A practical step was taken to lower the age limit to 15 years, some smaller units were closed and a refresher course was held for instructors.

Compulsory Military Training was abolished again in 1958 and replaced by the ballot system of conscripted service for randomly selected 20-year-old males, which operated between 1960 and 1970. By 1964 the Combined Cadet Forces reached a peak strength of 198 units, with 1000 officers and about 56,000 cadets.

Modernization and Restructuring - 1970[]

News clipping announcing females now accepted into the ATC

The Corps remained part of the Royal New Zealand Air Force until 1971 when the Government decided to disband it. However this caused a public outcry, with tremendous support from such organisations as the Returned Services Association, Brevet Clubs and the Air Force Association, and the Government was forced to reconsider its decision.

Reorganisation saw many schools cease cadet support and by 1970 Sea Cadet and Air Training Corps (ATC) units had decreased to 55 units with 3,200 cadets.

The result was that from 1972 the ATC was severed from the RNZAF and came under the umbrella of the newly formed New Zealand Cadet Forces, along with the Sea Cadets and N.Z. Cadet Corps.  As a voluntary organisation for which the Minister of Defence was responsible. The open units were required to be initiated and funded by the community and the Chief of Defence Forces was authorised to “direct and supervise” the Cadet Forces and provide military support which was initially confined uniforms, training and some equipment at a cost of no greater than $400,000.

Although no longer an integral part of the services, this organisation is still administered by the Ministry of Defence. Under the new legislation, the Air Cadet League was formed for the purpose of providing a supporting and funding role, although part of the annual Defence vote was and still is allocated to the Cadet Forces.

Centralised supervision was established by the Chief of Defence Force of all three Corps and a Commandant appointed with Regular Force Defence personnel, under the control of the Commandant, provided at 5 locations around New Zealand to support units. ATC Officers ceased to have “Queen’s” commissions and were appointed by the Minister of Defence with Cadet Force commissions, effectively remaining civilian volunteers on an unpaid basis with authority to wear military uniform and rank.

In 1978, as a result of the Human Rights Act, females were accepted in the Air Training Corps for the first time.

By 1985 the ATC had increased to 50 units. A resurgence of interest since 1989, attributed to the movies Top Gun and Iron Eagle and the like, saw unit numbers expand to around 100 units; many in areas that did not previously have Cadet units.

Air Training Corps Standard 2001

ATC Golden Jubilee and the new Millennium - 1991[]

Female cadet undergoing familiarisation with an M16

In 1991 the ATC celebrated its Golden Jubilee, 50 years since it was formed. To celebrate and raise its public profile a relay run was organised in which cadets from every unit in NZ participated. It started at either end of the country and converged in Wellington. Along the way money was collected and donated to CANTEEN-teenagers with cancer.[3]

In 2001 the ATC celebrated its Diamond Jubilee of 60 years in operation with special parades held in each area. By this time the ATC comprised 52 Squadrons spread from Kaitaia to Invercargill and approximately 2500 cadets.

2002 saw the introduction of Disruptive Pattern Material as an official uniform of the Air Training Corps.[4]

At the beginning of 2010, there were 103 Cadet Force units In New Zealand, and cadet numbers approximately 4500 with 360 cadet officers.

Air Training Corps 75th Anniversary - 2016[]

75th Anniversary Crest

The Air Training Corps celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 2016 with numerous exercises and parades held around the country.

Southern area

Southern area held exercise Southern Falcon.[5] Held at the West Melton Aerodrome just west of Christchurch. More than 100 cadet force personnel from nine units attended from all over the country. Cadets also had the opportunity to fly in an RNZAF C-130H as well as visits to aviation facilities around Christchurch. The event ended with a formal dinner at the Air Force Museum.

Central area

Central area held exercise Silver Sparrowhawk. Held at RNZAF Base Ohakea. The exercise had an attendance of over 150 personnel from nine units all over the lower north island and functioned as both a celebration as well as a friendly competition between the central area ATC Squadrons. Activities involved included flights on RNZAF NH-90 helicopters, a Pōwhiri welcoming the Air Training Corps on to the RNZAF Tūrangawaewae. Cadets also participated in a "Village Green", which included tug of war, fitness tests, observation exercises, rogaining. At the conclusion of the exercise No. 10 (Palmerston North) Squadron was awarded the winning trophy for the event.

Northern area

Northern area commemorated the anniversary with a combined parade[6] with all seven of the Auckland Air Training Corps Squadrons. This event combined with the 76th anniversary of the Battle of Britain saw more than 320 cadets parade for the Chief of the Air Force, Air Vice Marshall Tony Davies at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Air Training Corps 80th Anniversary - 2021[]

2021 will see the New Zealand Air Training Corps celebrate it's 80th year since formation.

In Auckland the seven local Squadrons will join with units outside of Auckland and the Auckland Air Force Association to mark both the 80th anniversary of the Air Training Corps and the annual Battle of Britain commemoration service.

Other parades and activities are expected to occur throughout New Zealand.

Organisation[]

National[]

The ATC is managed at a national level by the Commandant (usually a Regular Force Lieutenant-Colonel/Wing Commander/Commander), and their Staff based out of Trentham Army Camp.[7] It is supported by the Air Training Corps Association of New Zealand (ATCANZ).

Area[]

The country is divided into 3 areas, Northern (Northern half of the North Island), Central (Southern half of the North Island) and Southern (entire South Island). Each area has a NZCF Cadet Force Training and Support Unit (CFTSU), commanded by an Area Coordinator, with Advisors for Air Training Corps Squadrons.

Unit[]

Typical squadron organization of an Air Training Corps unit in New Zealand.

Each unit is managed by the Cadet Unit Commander, in partnership with the unit's branch of the ATCANZ. A typical unit has between one and four officers filling various roles. The Cadet Unit Commander appoints all personnel in the unit to their positions. Each unit has an Adjutant, Training Officer, and Stores Officer. These positions are usually filled by a commissioned officer (officers can hold multiple positions if necessary). One or more of the positions may have assistants, the assistants are often junior officers or Senior NCOs.

Each unit has a cadet NCO holding the position of Squadron Warrant Officer (who doesn't necessarily hold the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer). If the unit is large enough, each flight of cadets may have a Flight Sergeant. The Warrant Officer is normally responsible for supervising the NCOs in their various tasks, as a result, the Warrant Officer can skip the normal chain of command, enabling them to liaise directly with the Unit Commander.

How an individual unit is organised varies widely. A unit's organization depends on its size, number of officers, number of Cadet NCOs, facilities, and the organisational preference of the Cadet Unit Commander.

Cadet units are graded on their parading numbers, which dictates the number of officers each unit may have, and the number of Corporals, Sergeants, Flight Sergeants and Officer Cadets.

Air Training Corps Association of New Zealand (ATCANZ)[]

The Air Training Corps Association of New Zealand was formed as a result of the Defence Act 1990.[8][9] This is the secondary support body of the New Zealand Air Training Corps, behind only Headquarters New Zealand Cadet Forces.[10]

The association has a branch in every Air Training Corps squadron, made up of up to eight members of that unit. These members are usually parents of cadets belonging to that squadron, however other persons involved in the unit are also able to serve as committee members. The method of selecting committee members is by election of self-nominated personnel during a general meeting. The Cadet Unit Commander or a delegate Officer from the unit is also expected to be a sitting member of the committee to ensure that the branch is both kept informed of squadron activities and that the branch aligns its practices with the Unit Commanders intent and direction.

Each branch has three elected positions: Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer that persons must self-nominate for and then face election by the general committee.

Meetings[]

Local branch general meetings[]

Branches convene for annual general meetings shortly after the end of each financial year to elect new positions and decide what the best path forward for the next year will be. These meetings are often held at the relevant cadet units headquarters or the nearest RSA. Other than this general and special meetings will normally occur on a monthly basis or whenever needed depending on the operational tempo of the squadron.

National council annual general meetings[]

Each year the ATCANZ National Council hold an Annual General Meeting. This is often held in location most convenient for travel, as a representative from every ATCANZ branch is invited to attend. In more recent years this has been located at RNZAF Base Ohakea.

The purpose of this meeting is to facilitate the meeting of every units ATCANZ branch and allow them to coordinate on a national level. Often the Minister of Defence will be in attendance, as well as the Commandant NZCF, Assistant Commandant NZCF, and Returned Serviceman Association leadership.

Scholarships and awards[]

Each year ATCANZ provides a number of scholarships to Air Training Corps Personnel, these include;

  • The Sainsbury Awards[11]
  • Partial funding for cadets participating in the International Air Cadet Exchange[12]
  • Partial funding for cadets participating in the National Aviation course
  • Partial funding for cadets participating in the National Gliding course

Further prizes are given to cadets on Air Training Corps Aviation courses;[13]

Air Training Corps Association of New Zealand Aviation Course Prizes
Prize Criteria Award
Air New Zealand Prize, for the top power flying student This prize is awarded to the cadet who has performed at the highest level to come top in the Powered Flying Flight, with a positive attitude and aptitude in their overall airmanship and flying. Prize is a day with a domestic crew on an Air New Zealand A320
RNZAF Prize for the top Air Navigation Studet This prize is awarded to the cadet who has performed at the highest level in Air Navigation, is eager to learn and grasp new concepts, and to look for challenges during the course. Prize is $300 cash and a day with an RNZAF Orion crew
Charles Todd Trust This prize is awarded for achievement. Two prizes of $1,000 paid to the flying training organisation of the cadet’s choice.
RNZAFA - Stan Quill This prize is awarded to the Power Flying student who gained most from the course and who is likely to benefit most from additional flying experience Prize of $1,000 paid to the flying training organisation of the cadet’s choice.
Air New Zealand Regional Prizes These prizes are awarded to the students who would represent ATC in a positive light and would benefit from the experience. Four prizes of a jump seat flight on one of the Air New Zealand Regional operations.
Phil Le Couteur Safety Prize This prize is awarded to the student who best exemplifies a commitment to safety in the air and on the ground. Prize is $250 cash.
New Zealand Association of Women in Aviation This prize is presented to the female aviation student who has best demonstrated team work, a willingness to participate, general conduct, and flying skills. Prize as donated annually by NZAWA
Marlborough RSA Award This is awarded to a Navigation student who has improved the most in all areas of the Navigation course. Prize as donated annually by Marlborough RSA
Aviation News These prizes are awarded to the students in both flights who display a keen interest in aviation and who have worked hard on the course. Power Flight - 3 subscriptions to AVIATION NEWS

Navigation Flight - 3 subscriptions to AVIATION NEWS

Uniform and Insignia[]

Insignia and Badges[]

Badge worn on the shirt shoulders of Air Training Corps personnel.

The uniform worn by ATC members is the same as that of the Royal New Zealand Air Force, except that for all ranks, the lettering on the bottom of the rank insignia shoulder boards reads "CADET FORCES" rather than "NEW ZEALAND" to differentiate ATC personnel from RNZAF personnel. Officer Service Dress Uniforms have a shoulder flash reading "NEW ZEALAND CADET FORCES" rather than "ROYAL NEW ZEALAND AIR FORCE" for the same reason. Cadets wear a cloth "ATC" cap badge on their flight caps, while officers and officer cadets wear the same cap insignia as RNZAF officers.

Introduced in 2019 all ATC personnel now wear dark blue oval badges with "AIR TRAINING CORPS" on their shoulders to differentiate themselves from the RNZAF.

Cadets wear a shoulder brassard on their right arm to display their individual achievements and to further distinguish them from RNZAF personnel. Cadet achievements include Duke of Edinburgh's Award, flying/navigation badge, marksman badge and training level badges, as well as the number and name of the squadron they parade with.[14]

Commissioned Officers, Officer Cadets', National and Area Warrant Officers do not wear brassards to distinguish themselves from unit level Warrant Officers.

Uniforms[]

The Air Training Corps follows the Royal New Zealand Air Force with regards to uniform standards and clothing items, with all mandatory clothing being issued by the RNZAF. In the past the system used was that a unit would be graded 1-5 based on the quantity of personnel that attended a units parade night. Based on that grading the unit would then be issued an annual allowance for the unit to order new uniform as replacements or to provide to new cadets. The Air Training Corps currently operates the following uniforms;

Uniform No. 3 Service Dress No. 4 Service Dress No. 5 General Purpose No. 6 General Purpose No. 8 Field Service Dress PT Kit Cadet Working Dress
Example
Air Training Corps Officers on parade.jpg
No. 4 Service Dress.png
No. 5 GP .png
No. 6 GP.png
No. 8 Field Service Dress.png
ATC PT Uniform.png
Cadet Working Dress - Sample 1.png
Rank Emblems (worn on sternum)
Notes For Commissioned Officers and Staff NCOs only. Not commonly worn. Commonly referred to as 'DPM'

Scheduled for replacement 2021.

Unit Recognition Patch is worn on the right shoulder Velcro patch.

No fixed standard,

at discretion of Cadet Unit Commanders.

Anticipated to be introduced in 2021.

Unit Recognition Patch is worn on the right shoulder Velcro patch.

In December 2020 a major overhaul was announced.[15] In combination with the update to cadet net, new uniform will be issued directly to a new cadet upon their enrolment into a squadron. Unit equipment officers will source measurements for each cadet and enter them into CadetNet. The cadet will then be issued with uniform. Units will still maintain a local supply of uniform as spares however the bulk of uniform issued to new recruits will come from Headquarters New Zealand Cadet Forces.

Air Cadet Working Dress[]

Air Cadets with their new Cadet Working Dress.

In 2018 the NZCF identified that DPM was no longer a viable uniform for the Air Training Corps. This stemmed from the NZDF moving away from the uniform entirely. With there no longer being a source of NZDPM the organisation started exploring new uniforms.[16] The product of that exploration is the 'Cadet Working Dress' (CWD).

Intended to be introduced in late 2021 the Sea Cadet Corps and Air Training Corps have adopted a single multipurpose uniform that replaces the New Zealand Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM) currently used by the Air Training Corps as its No. 8 Field Service Uniform. The Air Training Corps will adopt the uniform first to free up DPM for the New Zealand Cadet Corps. The style of the uniform is modeled off the RNZAFs General Purpose Uniform[17] however lacks the flame retardant feature of the RNZAF version, this isn't seen as a necessity due to cadets rarely catching fire. These modifications and bulk order result in a uniform that is practically affordable to the organisation. The Sea Cadet variant will retain the darker blue colour of the RNZN General Working Dress, by be identical otherwise.

Cadets and Officers will be issued a set of Cadet Working Dress upon being issued their general purpose uniform (No. 6 GP) as part of the integrated logistics platform that will see new cadets issued a 'pack' of equipment and uniform from New Zealand Cadet Forces Headquarters.

As well as the key components (Shirt, Pants, Boots), the New Zealand Cadet Forces intends to role out accessories such as matching rain jackets for cadets to either be supplied with outright, or purchase through the NZCF directly. More accessories are yet to be announced however warm weather equipment such as jerseys, wind breakers, and high visibility vests have been speculated by NZCF personnel.[18]

The supplier for the Cadet Working Dress is based in Fiji. As a result the 2021 outbreak of COVID-19 production and shipping of CWDs was reduced, delaying the introduction of the uniform.

Role out of the uniform commenced in July 2021, with more than 300 personnel receiving their uniform by July 18th.[19] By August 11th every Squadron in the South Island had been equipped with Cadet Working Dress[20] with the issuing of CWD to commence in the North Island (Central and Northern Area) shortly thereafter.

Unit Recognition Patches[]

Headquarters Recognition Patches

Subject to approval by the Commandant NZCF, Units are authorized to design and produce Unit Recognition Patches (URP) for their personnel to wear. For the Air Training Corps, authorized Unit Recognition Patches are square 80mm x 80mm patches fastened by Velcro to Cadet Working Dress.

Unit Recognition Patches may only be worn by members belonging to that particular unit. Although they're commonly gifted to other units as signs of goodwill and friendship. The New Zealand Cadet Forces operate the NZCF logo as a recognition patch, although these are only worn by personnel attached to Headquarters NZCF, or Cadet Force Training and Support Units (CFTSUs).

Ranks[]

All active Air Cadets are able to work towards being promoted. The size of each unit dictates the quantity of each rank that a unit is allowed.

Non-Commissioned Officer Ranks[]

Cadet Non-Commissioned Officer ranks are based on the RNZAF ranks, and are:

Rank Abbreviation Basic Requirements

to be awarded

Designation
Cadet CDT Awarded upon successfully joining an Air Training Corps Squadron. CDT 1
LAC
  • Completed Basic Two training as per the NZCF 170C.
  • The cadet must have attended a minimum of 20 parades and be suitable to act as flight marker.
CDT 2
Corporal CDTCPL
  • Successfully completed the NZCF Junior Non-Commissioned Officer Course.
  • Completed Proficiency training as per the NZCF 170C.
  • No disciplinary or performance issues.
CDT 3
Sergeant CDTSGT
  • Successfully completed the NZCF Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Course.
  • Completed Advanced training as per the NZCF 170C.
  • No disciplinary or performance issues.
CDT 4
Flight Sergeant CDTF/S
  • Completed a minimum of six months serving in the rank of Sergeant.
  • No disciplinary or performance issues.
CDT 5
Warrant Officer CDTW/O
  • Completed a minimum of six months serving in the rank of Flight Sergeant.
  • No disciplinary or performance issues
  • Note: small units occasionally promote personnel to Warrant Officer from the rank of Sergeant.
CDT 7

The CDT prefix/suffix is used to distinguish regular force personnel from those of the cadet forces. The only other difference is that in the RNZAF, LAC stands for Leading Aircraftman

However, whilst not all cadets become NCOs, all get the chance to train and progress through the different levels of training, Basic 1, Basic 2, Proficiency, and Advanced levels, by demonstrating knowledge and skills in subjects including cadet forces knowledge, general service knowledge, leadership, firearms safety, and aviation.

As of early 2007, the Chief of Air Staff has accepted the introduction of the rank of Leading Air Cadet (LACDT). This is not regarded as an NCO rank but will be awarded to those cadets showing obvious leadership skills or to give seniority to long-serving or older cadets who may not otherwise have been given a chance to go on a junior NCO course. This is the Air Training Corps equivalent to the NZCC Lance Corporal and Sea Cadet Corps' Able Cadet.

Cadet Ranks and Insignia in the ATC
NZCF
Cadets
CDT 7 CDT 6 CDT 5 CDT 4 CDT 3 CDT 2 CDT 1
New Zealand Air Training Corps.png

Air Cadets


Cadet Warrant Officer Cadet Flight Sergeant Cadet Sergeant Cadet Corpral Leading Air Cadet Cadet
Cadet Warrant Officer Cadet Flight Sergeant Cadet Sergeant Cadet Corpral Leading Air Cadet Cadet
Cadet
Warrant Officer
No equivalent Cadet Flight
Sergeant
Cadet
Sergeant
Cadet
Corpral
Leading Air
Cadet
Cadet
CDTW/O CDTF/S CDTSGT CDTCPL LAC CDT


Commissioned Officer Ranks[]

Air Training Corps Officers also follow RNZAF Ranks, and are.

Rank Abbreviation General Requirements

to be awarded

Designation
Officer Cadet OFFCDT Two entry paths;
  • Serving cadet, upon turning 18 decide to commission upon which the rank will be awarded before the individuals next birthday.
  • Alternatively the direct entry option sees a civilian adult member decide they wish to commission, they will need to serve 6 months at the unit to establish whether the professional relationship is sustainable for both the unit and the individual, after 6 months and upon completion of the relevant online learning modules HQNZCF may award the rank.
O1
Acting Pilot Officer A/PLTOFF
  • Awarded upon successful completion of the NZCF Officer Commissioning Course. Personnel will serve one year in an acting capacity. After one year efficient service they are substantiated as Pilot Officers and awarded their Commission Parchment (on the authority of the Minister of Defence)
Nil
Pilot Officer PLTOFF
  • Have completed twelve months efficient service in the Acting Pilot Officer rank.
  • Be assessed by the Cadet Unit Commander as suitable and recommended for appointment to a confirmed commissioned.
  • Recommended by Cadet Unit Commander and the Area Coordinator of the relevant Cadet Force Training and Support Unit.
  • Approved by the Commandant NZCF.
O2
Flying Officer FGOFF
  • Have completed two years efficient service in the substantive rank of Pilot Officer.
  • Successfully completed the Instructional and Training Management course
  • Recommended by Cadet Unit Commander and the Area Coordinator of the relevant Cadet Force Training and Support Unit.
  • Approved by the Commandant NZCF.
O3
Flight Lieutenant

(Pronounced: Flight Leftenant)

FLTLT
  • Have completed four years efficient service in the substantive rank of Flying Officer.
  • Recommended by Cadet Unit Commander and the Area Coordinator of the relevant Cadet Force Training and Support Unit.
  • Approved by the Commandant NZCF.
O4
Squadron Leader SQNLDR
  • Have completed five years efficient service in the substantive rank of Flight Lieutenant
  • Successfully completed the NZCF Command Course and intend to serve either as a Cadet Unit Commander or Area Support Officer.
  • Recommended by Cadet Unit Commander and the Area Coordinator of the relevant Cadet Force Training and Support Unit.
  • Approved by the Commandant NZCF.
O5
Wing Commander WGCDR
  • Only the person in the position of Assistant Commandant holds this rank.
O6
Officer Ranks and Insignia in the ATC
NZCF
Officers
OFF 6 OFF 5 OFF 4 OFF 3 OFF 2 OFF 1
New Zealand Air Training Corps.png

Air
Cadets


Wing Commander Squadron Leader Flight Lieutenant Flying Officer Pilot Officer Officer Cadet
Wing Commander Squadron Leader Flight Lieutenant Flying Officer Pilot Officer Officer Cadet
Wing Commander Squadron Leader Flight Lieutenant Flying Officer Pilot Officer Officer Cadet
Wing Commander Squadron Leader Flight Lieutenant Flying Officer Pilot Officer No Insignia
Wing Commander Squadron Leader Flight Lieutenant Flying Officer Pilot Officer Officer Cadet
Wing
Commander
Squadron
Leader
Flight
Lieutenant
Flying
Officer
Pilot
Officer
Officer cadet
WGCDR SQNLDR FLTLT FGOFF PLTOFF OFFCDT


While New Zealand Cadet Forces Officers hold commissions on behalf the New Zealand Parliament, via the Minister of Defence. They are not entitled to be saluted by New Zealand Defence Force personnel. Due to the rank emblems being identical other than the "New Zealand" and "Cadet Forces" identifier, occasionally Cadet Force Officers are saluted by NZDF personnel, if this happens Cadet Force Officers are encouraged to return the salute to be polite.

New Zealand Cadet Force Officers do not hold precedence of rank over NZDF personnel e.g. a Cadet Force Squadron leader has no authority to issue orders to a NZDF Pilot Officer or Non-Commissioned Officer.

New Zealand Cadet Force Officers continue to undergo training throughout their career, following the yet to be released NZCF 170O.

Membership[]

Cadet members[]

Interested personnel can join between the ages of 13 to 15 (or if attending the first year of high school) and can stay on without being promoted to the age of 18. Senior Non-Commissioned Officers may serve until their 20th birthday.

Other than black lace up shoes, all uniform is provided upon enrolment into a unit and completion of a training camp where wearing of the uniform is taught. Bonds are sometimes held to ensure that they are returned.

Fees[]

Unit fees are set by each unit Parent Support Committee annually. Due to fluctuating operating costs, these vary from unit to unit dependent on the type of activities the unit has planned, although typically fees will be no more than $200 annually.

Adult members[]

Adult Cadets[]

Note the white band on the rank slide indicating the Cadet Flight Sergeant is classified as an 'Adult Cadet'

In 2017 the New Zealand Cadet Forces updated their Child Protection policy surrounding cadets who are either Non-Commissioned Officers or personnel who are completing cadet level training that are aged 18 and over.

There is a deliberate delineation between an 'Adult' and an 'Officer' as the latter has specific authority to exercise command and control over cadets and other NZCF Officers.

The key difference between a cadet who is an adult and a cadet who is under 18 is that adult cadets and indeed all adults within the New Zealand Cadet Forces are charged with the responsibility of maintaining the safety and welfare of cadets during all NZCF activities. While this doesn't mean that cadets who are classified as adults hold authority over other cadets due to their age, it means that adult cadets are expected to at the very least vocalize to an Officer or Supplementary Staff member when they believe safety and welfare have been compromised.

Cadet Non-Commissioned Officers who are 18 or older are issued a thin white band which is sewn into the rank slide of the individual immediately above the "CADET FORCES" lettering and below the rank emblem.

Officers and Supplementary Staff[]

Adult Members can serve in two capacities: Commissioned Officers or Supplementary Staff. Officers are commissioned into the New Zealand Cadet Forces, with the post-nominal letters NZCF, at the rank of Pilot Officer, and can be promoted to Flying Officer, and Flight Lieutenant after completing the necessary training and service.

In 2014 the organisation introduced a new position of National Support Officer (NSO). This position was designed to place a New Zealand Cadet Force Officer at high level of influence within HQNZCF, which traditionally had his position had been solely occupied by New Zealand Defence Force Personnel. In 2016 with the adoption of the continental staff system the position was renamed to Assistant Commandant. If he or she is an ATC officer, as opposed to an NZCC or SCC officer, they will hold the rank of Wing Commander.

Supplementary Staff or SS for short, are civilians who help train cadets. They do not wear uniform, but they are generally treated similarly to officers by cadets. Members of the NZDF are occasionally attached to cadet units to assist in conducting training. This is normally because they know a cadet/officer in that unit, or if they have a particular interest in cadet forces. They are addressed as "Instructor" or by cadets choice, "Sir" or "Ma'am".

Fees[]

Most NZCF Officers do not pay any membership fees, this is typically to balance the time and effort put in by NZCF Officers. While Officers aren't encouraged to, a large amount contribute anyway, by way of purchasing stationary and equipment for their unit.

Activities[21][]

The Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award[]

Officers and Adults[]

Any Commissioned Officer in the [22]NZCF or Supplementary Staff member that has an active security clearance is eligible to become an award facilitator, allowing cadets within their unit to actively participate in the award and allows any progress towards the award to be signed off. There is no limit to the number of staff members that can be award facilitators, allowing larger units to focus a staff member to each section of the award.

While the award is directed towards young adults and within the NZCF specifically, the cadets and NCOs, Junior Officers and adults under the age of 25 are also eligible to complete any of the awards (although the Gold award would be the most reasonable).[23]

Cadet Participation[]

Run in partnership with the Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Awards the award is a multi year, voluntary, non-competitive programme of practical, cultural and adventurous activities, designed to support the personal and social development of young people aged 14–25, regardless of gender, background or ability. It offers an individual challenge and encourages young people to undertake exciting, constructive, challenging and enjoyable activities in their free time.

Personnel undertaking the award can begin the activity either through their school, a third party provider, or the New Zealand Cadet Forces with more than 9,000 young adults undertaking the programme each year.[24]

Within the frame of the New Zealand Cadet Forces, parade nights and community service events like Anzac Day parades can count towards the service requirement while weekend camps and courses can count towards the skill section of the awards.[25] The Cadet Fieldcraft Activity can also count towards the Adventurous Journey for all three awards. Cadets are also able to retroactively claim work up to 3 months of work they've done before signing up for their first award. For example if a cadet completed a NZCF promotional course such as the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Course shortly before signing up for an award, then they would be able to retroactively use the course for their residential project.

Cadets that successfully complete an award are entitled to wear the pin of the highest award they receive on their brassard (if Air Training Corps or New Zealand Cadet Corps) or Jacket (if Sea Cadet Corps).

Year Bronze Silver Gold
Badge
Bronze-logo orig.png
Silver-logo orig.png
Gold-logo orig.png
Description Bronze is the first level of The Award, for your Bronze Award you need to complete 13 hours of two sections and 26 hours of one section. Silver is the second level of the Award, for Silver you need to complete 26 hours of each section if you have completed bronze and an additional 13 hours if you haven't. Gold is the highest level of The Award, for Gold you need to complete 12 months of each section if you have completed silver and an additional 26 hours if you haven't. At gold you also need to complete the Residential Project.
Eligibility You Can start the Bronze award in the year you turn 14. You can start your silver once you have completed bronze or are 15 You can start gold as soon as you are 16

Parade Nights[]

Every unit holds Parade Nights around 2–4 hours long weekly during school terms. Each parade night usually begins and ends with a parade. The starting parade is used to raise the RNZAF ensign, to inspect uniforms, and to inform the cadets on the parade night's activities. The final parade is used to lower the RNZAF ensign. They are then informed either during parade or at a debrief of upcoming events in the unit. Between the parades, the cadets undergo classroom or practical instruction.

Flying[]

Solo Flying wings

Units teach aviation theory as part of the parade nights, and units typically organise practical Flying Training for the cadets in partnership with local Aero Clubs. There is an annual National Aviation Course, consisting of separate Flying and Navigation flights. Those that opt for the Flying component spend two weeks covering both theory and practical lessons in flying, with First Solo being a common achievement for those over 16 years of age. The Navigation component is a 1-week long theoretical and practical course covering the NZ CAA Private Pilot Licence syllabus. The practical content included 4 navigation flights building up from an initial 30 minute map reading exercise to a full two hour Navigation exercise covering up to 100 nautical miles (190 km) distance. As of 2021 the cost of attending the aviation courses for Air Cadets has increased,[26] with the cost per person for those attending the two courses required to pay the following:

  • National Power Flying Course - $1,000 (NZD), this up from $650 that has typically been charged (which was unadjusted for 6 years).
  • National Navigation Course - $440 (NZD)
    Air Cadet with a Marlin XT .22 rifle.

Gliding[]

As with Flying, Gliding Training is organised by the unit in partnership with local Gliding Clubs. There is one annual week-long Gliding Course, which is held at Matamata aerodrome. Cadets from all over New Zealand may attend this week-long course. As of 2021 the cost of attending the national gliding course has increased,[26] with the cost per person for those attending the two courses required to pay the following:

  • National Gliding Course - $550 (NZD)

Field Craft Activity[]

Most units conduct classroom training in bushcraft and survival skills and hold regular Basic and Advanced bushcraft camps in the local area during weekends. The Cadet Fieldcraft activity, renamed and reshaped from the all encompassing 'bushcraft course', is a nine day course that provides Cadets with an enhanced practical experience in field craft to further their outdoor skills training. The course is divided in to two components, the cadet section which offers between 30-60 cadets the opportunity to travel around the country to meet and interact with cadets from other squadrons.

ATC personnel on an exchange for the Royal Air Cadets 75th Celebrations.

Separately the course serves to train Commissioned Officers to be able to lead and manage cadets on day tramps and/or overnight camps on clearly formed tracks in and below the bush line. Officers are taught leadership, risk and crisis management, bush craft skills, and first aid.

The course is held either at RNZAF Dip Flat in the South Island, Waiouru Army base in the North Island, or occasionally Tekapo Army Camp south west of Christchurch.

Shooting[]

Units conduct regular range training with small-bore rifles. Some units have their own armouries and ranges at their parade hall. Cadets must pass a Dry Firing Training Test (DFTT) before being allowed on the range. Cadets who achieve high marks regularly on the range may be awarded a marksmanship badge to be worn on their brassard.

Public Service[]

Each year the New Zealand Cadet Forces participate in numerous public service events around the country. Anzac day represents the most public and personnel intensive deployment for cadet force personnel, often involving the bulk of the units forces. Cadets will form cenotaph and catafalque parties on behalf of, and in partnership with the New Zealand Defence Force.

Another high profile public service that the NZCF participate in is the annual Poppy Day drive by the RNRSA, where cadets and RSA members work together to raise funds towards helping New Zealand Veterans and the RNRSA.

International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE)[]

The International Air Cadet Exchange is an annual exchange program organized by the International Air Cadet Exchange Association.

The New Zealand Air Training Corps each year sends a dozen members of the organization to countries all over the world. The participants can be any rank and a Commissioned NZCF Officer accompanies each group of cadets overseas, providing opportunities for both adult and youth members.

Local Training[]

Cadets[]

Each Squadron trains at least one night per week - a "parade night" in order to undertake the Cadet Development Framework[27] Each squadron employs a training officer who's role it is to create and implement a local training programme. The Cadet Development Framework is a four year program which provides cadets with the opportunity to develop skills in leadership, aviation knowledge, drill, firearms training, fieldcraft, and more.

The programme provides standardisation for training and expected development within Cadet Units for CDT – CDTW/O. Some content is applicable to all three Corps of the NZCF, whilst some is specific to particular Corps.

The content of the Four-Year Training Programme is not designed to fill every period during parade nights in a calendar year, but intentionally leaves scope for Cadet Unit Commanders to add content that will add value to their communities, strengthen Unit identity and provide opportunities for cadets that they may not receive outside of NZCF. However, only completion of the prescribed training will ensure that cadets can continue moving through the development model. Delivery of the content of the Four-Year Training Programme is at Cadet Unit Commander’s discretion. In time, further resources to assist in delivery will be developed, including parade night lesson plans, instructor guides and additional resources. Currently available resources should be used in the first instance for delivery of training. Where gaps in knowledge or skills exist, Area Advisors and/or Area Support Officers should be engaged.

The training is split in to three different levels off learning that correspond with a cadets progression.

  • Lead Self - Years 1-2
  • Lead Teams - Year 3+
  • Lead Leaders - Year 4+
Junior Cadets Training
Year One Cadets - Basic One Year Two Cadets - Basic Two Year Three Cadets - Proficiency
NZ ATC Basic Badge.png
NZ ATC Basic Badge.png
NZ ATC Basic Badge.png
NZ ATC Proficiency Badge.png
To achieve the Basic 1 badge a cadet must

complete the following first year subjects.

Lessons To achieve the Basic 2 badge a cadet must

complete the following second year subjects.

Lessons To achieve the Proficiency badge a cadet must

complete the following third year subjects.

Lessons
BSH - Bushcraft 1.1-1.9 BSH - Bushcraft 2.1-2.3 BSH - Bushcraft 3.1-3.4
DRL - Drill 1.1-1.14 DRL - Drill 2.1-2.9 DRL - Drill 3.1-3.7
ETH - Ethics & Safety 1.1-1.5 FAS - Firearms Safety & Marksmanship 2.1-2.4 FAS - Firearms Safety & Marksmanship 3.1
FAS - Firearms Safety & Marksmanship 1.1-1.5 LDR - Leadership, Communication & Management 2.1-2.2 LDR - Leadership, Communication & Management 3.1-3.5
LDR - Leadership, Communication & Management 1.1 MED - Health & Medical 2.1-2.6 MED - Health & Medical 3.1-3.4
MED - Health & Medical 1.1 NAV - Navigation 2.1-2.6 NAV - Navigation 3.1-3.3
NAV - Navigation 1.1-1.10 OPS - Operations, Traditions, History 2.1-2.11 OPS - Operations, Traditions, History 3.1-3.9
OPS - Operations, Traditions, History 1.1-1.13 PHY - Physical & Adventurous Training 2.1-2.2 RCD - Radio, Cyber, Drones 3.1-3.2
PHY - Physical & Adventurous Training 1.1-1.6 AVS - Aviation Studies 2.1-2.3 SAL - Systems Approach to Learning 3.1-3.11
RCD - Radio, Cyber, Drones 1.1-1.5 AVS - Aviation Studies 3.1-3.3
AVS - Aviation Studies 1-7
Senior Cadets / Non Commissioned Officer Training
Year Four Cadets - Advanced Additional Training
NZ ATC Advanced.png
No Badge
To achieve the Advanced badge a cadet must

complete the following fourth year subjects.

Lessons Suggested additional training subject

to unit availability to participate.

Lessons
ETH - Ethics & Safety 4.1 DRL - Drill 5.1-5.6
EXP - Exercise Planning & Risk Management 4.1-4.14 OPS - Operations, Traditions, History 5.1-5.2
LDR - Leadership, Communication & Management 4.1-4.9 PHY - Physical & Adventurous Training 5.1-5.2
OPS - Operations, Traditions, History 4.1-4.2 MED - Health & Medical 5.1
SAL - Systems Approach to Learning 4.1-4.5 RCD - Radio, Cyber, Drones 5.1-5.3

Courses[]

Tri-Corps Courses[]

  • Junior NCO Course[28]
  • Senior NCO Course[28]
  • Cadet Fieldcraft Activity
  • Officer Fieldcraft Activity
  • Officers Commissioning Course
  • Range Conducting Officers Course
  • Officers Instructional Technique & Training Management Course
  • Officers' Command Course
  • Shooting Coaches' Course

ATC-only Courses[]

  • National Aviation Course - Power Flying[28]
  • National Aviation Course - Navigation[28]
  • National Gliding Activity[28]
  • Air Force Experience[29]

Competitions[]

Aviation Skills Competition[]

The Aviation Skills Competition (AVSKILLS), is a set of three competitions held across New Zealand, each open to ATC squadrons in their area. This is followed by a national competition, pitting the three winners against each other to determine the top squadron in the country. The competition aims to test cadets on their teamwork, comradeship and capabilities. Cadets are tested on various aspects of their training, including rifle shooting, GSK & CFK (knowledge of the NZDF and NZCF respectively), first aid, drill and navigation.[30]

Air Cadet Aviation Skills Competition Winners
Year Area AVSKILLS Winner National AVSKILLS Winner National AVSKILLS Location Notes
Northern Central Southern
2021 No. 30 (Hobbsonville) Squadron No. 1 (City of Wellington) Squadron TBD TBD TBD
2020 No Team Entered No. 32 (Borough of Feilding) Squadron No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron RNZAF Base Woodbourne No Northern Area team entered due to COVID-19
2019 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron No. 32 (Borough of Feilding) Squadron No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron RNZAF Base Woodbourne
2018 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron No. 32 (Borough of Feilding) Squadron No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron RNZAF Base Ohakea Inaugural Year

Air League Trophy - Area and National Efficiency Competition[]

At some point in the year, nominated squadrons are inspected by their Area Co-ordinator. They judge them on their standards of drill, knowledge of the ATC curriculum, and general efficiency in running the unit. The three winning squadrons are then inspected by New Zealand Defence Force staff who determine the most efficient unit nationally. Units that win the national competition are awarded the Air League Trophy.

Davy Memorial Drill Competition[]

Year Winning Squadron Area Notes
2020 No. 32 (Borough of Feilding) Squadron Central
2019 No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron Southern
2018 No. 10 (City of Palmerston North) Squadron Central
2017 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
2016 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
2015 No. 10 (City of Palmerston North) Squadron Central
2014 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
2013 No. 10 (City of Palmerston North) Squadron Central
2012 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
2011 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
2010 No. 11 (District of Hastings) Squadron Central
2009 No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron Southern
2008 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
2007 No. 41 (City of Porirua) Squadron Central
2006 Unknown
2005 Unknown
2004 Unknown
2003 Unknown
2002 No. 35 (Whakatane) Squadron Northern
2001 No. 35 (Whakatane) Squadron Northern
2000 Unknown
1999 Unknown
1998 No. 1 (City of Wellington) Squadron Central
1997 No. 11 (District of Hastings) Squadron Central
1996 No. 11 (District of Hastings) Squadron Central
1995 No. 42 (City of Dunedin) Squadron Southern
1994 No. 30 (Hobsonville) Squadron Northern
1993 11 SQN, 30 SQN, 5 SQN
1992 No. 5 (Rodney District) Squadron Northern
1991 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
1990 No. 11 (District of Hastings) Squadron Central
1989 No. 11 (District of Hastings) Squadron Central
1988 No. 11 (District of Hastings) Squadron Central
1987 No. 11 (District of Hastings) Squadron Central
1986 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
1985 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
1984 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
1983 No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron Southern
1982 No. 41 (City of Porirua) Squadron Central
1981 No. 37 (Thames) Squadron Northern
1980 No. 17 (City of Christchurch) Squadron Southern
1979 No. 5 (Rodney District) Squadron Northern
1978 No. 9 (City of Wanganui) Squadron Central
1977 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
1976 No. 5 (Rodney District) Squadron Northern
1975 No. 5 (Rodney District) Squadron Northern
1974 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
1973 No. 30 (Hobsonville) Squadron Northern
1972 Unknown
1971 No. 47 (District of Hawera) Squadron Central Unit no longer exists
1970 No. 11 (District of Hastings) Squadron Central
1969 No. 5 (Rodney District) Squadron Northern
1968 No. 5 (Rodney District) Squadron Northern
1967 No. 10 (City of Palmerston North) Squadron Central
1966 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
1965 No. 23 (Nelson) Squadron Southern
1964 No. 1 (City of Wellington) Squadron Central
1963 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
1962 No. 5 (Rodney District) Squadron Northern
1961 Auckland Northern
1960 Greymouth Southern
1959 Auckland Northern

The Davy Drill Competition is a Ceremonial Drill competition held annually, in each of the three areas. The competition is only open to the Air Training Corps and must consist of no less than 12 people in a marching formation, with one parade commander, which is to be of a Senior NCO rank. The winner of each area's competition moves onto the National Competition.

The winner of the National competition wins the Davy Memorial Trophy, which was donated in memoriam of Hr. H.A.C Davy, who was the Dominion President of the Air Training Corps Association for a number of years.

Shooting Competitions[]

Wallingford Shooting Competition[31][]

Year Winning Squadron Area
2020 No. 13 (City of Napier) Squadron Central
2019 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
2018 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
2017 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
2016 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
2015 No. 3 (City of Auckland) Squadron Northern
2014 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
2013 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
2012 No. 7 (City of Hamilton) Squadron / No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
2011 No. 19 (Auckland) Squadron Northern
2010 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
2009 No. 36 (Greymouth) Squadron Southern
2008 No. 31 (Morrinsville) squadron Northern
2007 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
2006 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
2005 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
2004 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
2003 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
2002 No. 31 (Morrinsville) squadron Northern
2001 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
2000 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
1999 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
1998 No. 16 (District of Tauranga) Squadron Northern
1997 No. 38 (Wigram) Squadron Southern
1996 No. 38 (Wigram) Squadron Southern
1995 No. 13 (City of Napier) Squadron Central
1994 No. 31 (Morrinsville) squadron Northern
1993 No. 27 (Blenheim) Squadron Southern
1992 No. 27 (Blenheim) Squadron Southern
1991 No. 6 (North Shore) Squadron Northern
1990 No. 2 (Hutt City) Squadron Central
1989 No. 6 (North Shore) Squadron Northern
1988 No. 21 (Masterton District) Squadron Central
1987 No. 21 (Masterton District) Squadron Central
1986 No. 21 (Masterton District) Squadron Central
1985 No. 21 (Masterton District) Squadron Central
1984 No. 6 (North Shore) Squadron Northern
1983 No. 18 (Avon) Squadron Southern
1982 No. 6 (North Shore) Squadron Northern
1981 No. 18 (Avon) Squadron Southern
1980 No. 18 (Avon) Squadron Southern
1979 No. 18 (Avon) Squadron Southern
1978 No. 30 (Hobbsonville) Squadron Southern
1977 Unknown
1976 Unknown
1975 No. 11 (District of Hastings) Squadron Central
1974 No. 20 (City of Whangarei) Squadron Northern
1973 No. 20 (City of Whangarei) Squadron Northern
1972 No. 20 (City of Whangarei) Squadron Northern
1971 No. 21 (Masterton District) Squadron Central
1970 No. 20 (City of Whangarei) Squadron Northern
1969 Unknown
1968 No. 1 (City of Wellington) Squadron Central

The Wallingford Shooting Competition represents the New Zealand Air Training Corps national shooting competition. All NZCF Air Training Corps squadrons are eligible for the competition.

Air Commodore S. Wallingford CB, CBE, who was for many years President of the RNZAF Small Arms Association, donated this trophy for team postal competition to encourage rifle shooting in the Air Training Corps. This cup is awarded to the winning team of the Air Training Corps small-bore postal shoot

This competition also represents one of the only opportunity for Air Training Corps personnel to earn the NZCF Marksman Badge. In order to be awarded the badge a cadet must, while competing in the Wallingford Shooting Competition achieve a score of 80% or more. The other Two Badges are awarded under this competitions ruleset.

There is a common misconception that NZCF personnel can only attain the marksman badge in the Wallingford competition. This is not the case. The NZCF 160 Competitions and Awards Manual states the following.[32]

Attained a score of 80% or more during any of the following shoots:

(1) National Smit, Gunson and Wallingford competitions.

(2) Units practicing for the National Smit, Gunson and Wallingford competitions.

(3) Area and National SCC Regattas, NZCC Skills and ATC Skills competitions.

(4) Competition shoots between Cadet Units.

Note: All shoots are to be conducted under the same rules as the National

Shooting Competitions.

Air Training Corps Shooting Badges
Competency Badge First Class Shot Badge Marksman Badge
Criteria 60% Score (≥60/100) 70% Score (≥70/100) 80% Score (≥80/100)
Badge
Compentcy ATC Badge.png
First Class ATC Badge.png
Marksman ATC Badge.png

Ffennell Shooting Competition[]

Ffennell Gold Medal

The Ffennell competitions are a group of small-bore rifle matches for the youth of the Commonwealth. New Zealand Cadet Forces units contest the Class B competitions (using issued rifles and sights). The matches are held under the authority of the Commonwealth Postal Competitions Committee (CPCC). All international correspondence on behalf of the CPCC will be handled by the Council for Cadet Rifle Shooting.

The aim of these team matches is to encourage the Youth of the Commonwealth to participate in the sport of small-bore target rifle shooting.

Entry is open to any unit or sub-unit of the following:

  1. New Zealand Cadet Forces;
  2. Junior Servicemen of the New Zealand Defence Forces in one establishment; and
  3. Other youth groups approved by the CPCC.

Units may enter one or more teams. Each team shall consist of eight firers. A shooter cannot shoot on more than one team. The team captain may or may not be one of these eight. All members of the team must be under the age of 19 years on the day of firing the match, and be serving members of the same unit or sub-unit.

Each team member will fire two cards, 10 rounds to count being fired at each card, with two rounds fired at each aiming mark. Sighting shots will be completed before the practice begins. The whole team need not complete shooting in one day. Highest Possible Score (HPS) is 200. Team HPS is 1600.

See also[]

International Air Cadets Organisations[]

References[]

  1. ^ "New Zealand Cadet Forces".
  2. ^ http://www.atcanz.org.nz/Portals/0/AComdt%20Report%202021.pdf
  3. ^ "Wayback Machine". 2007-09-29. Archived from the original on 2007-09-29. Retrieved 2021-06-17. Cite uses generic title (help)
  4. ^ https://web.archive.org/web/20021005055553/http://www.41sqn.50megs.com/
  5. ^ "Taking to the air to mark 75 years of ATC". Stuff. 2016-12-14. Retrieved 2021-06-09.
  6. ^ "Watch: Battle of Britain Ceremonial Parade at Auckland War Memorial Museum". NZ Herald. Retrieved 2021-06-09.
  7. ^ "New Zealand Cadet Forces". www.cadetforces.org.nz. Retrieved 2021-08-03.
  8. ^ "Defence Act 1990 No 28 (as at 07 August 2020), Public Act 78 Assistance to cadet forces – New Zealand Legislation". legislation.govt.nz. Retrieved 2021-06-09.
  9. ^ "New Zealand Cadet Forces". www.cadetforces.org.nz. Retrieved 2021-06-09.
  10. ^ "New Zealand Cadet Forces". www.cadetforces.org.nz. Retrieved 2021-06-09.
  11. ^ "Patrons". www.atcanz.org.nz. Retrieved 2021-06-09.
  12. ^ "Patrons". www.atcanz.org.nz. Retrieved 2021-06-09.
  13. ^ "Resources". www.atcanz.org.nz. Retrieved 2021-06-09.
  14. ^ https://resources.17squadronatc.com/2021/Recruit%20Handbook%202021.pdf
  15. ^ "TS Waikato on Instagram: "The Commandant of the NZCF delivers a speech to us all where he announces uniform will be fully funded in 2020! This is massive for the…"". Instagram. Retrieved 2021-06-08.
  16. ^ http://www.atcanz.org.nz/Portals/0/Report%20from%20the%20Commandant.pdf
  17. ^ 41015725. "Royal New Zealand Air Force | Air Force News - Issue 231, December 2020". Issuu. Retrieved 2021-06-08.CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  18. ^ Spoke to dozens of NZCF Officers and SNCOs.
  19. ^ https://www.facebook.com/nzcf1/posts/3547160118720263
  20. ^ https://www.facebook.com/nzcf1/posts/3612894538813487
  21. ^ "New Zealand Cadet Forces". www.cadetforces.org.nz. Retrieved 2019-07-19.
  22. ^ https://www.facebook.com/nzcf1/posts/3313515528751391
  23. ^ https://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/17414/What-is-involved-in-The-Duke-of-Edinburgh-s-Award-
  24. ^ MSD, New Zealands Duke of Edinburghs Hillary Award programme reaches international heights. - MYD, MSD, retrieved 2021-07-29
  25. ^ https://cdn.fld.nz/uploads/sites/dofehillary/files/Providers/Cadet_Forces/NZ_Cadet_Forces__DofE_Brochure.pdf
  26. ^ a b http://www.atcanz.org.nz/Portals/0/President%27s%20Report%202021.pdf
  27. ^ NZCF 170 - Cadet Development Framework
  28. ^ a b c d e "New Zealand Cadet Forces". www.cadetforces.org.nz. Retrieved 2019-07-19.
  29. ^ Henson, Lisa (28 April 2010). "Future forces taste life on base". Feilding Herald. Retrieved 30 October 2011.[permanent dead link]
  30. ^ "Joining Instructions: No. 1 (City of Wellington) Squadron ATC Skills Competition" (PDF). No. 1 (City of Wellington) Squadron. 5 May 2018. Retrieved 3 June 2020.
  31. ^ Reference is the plaques on the physical Wallingford Trophy base
  32. ^ "Manuals |". Retrieved 2021-06-08.

External links[]


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