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2409 Halton Sqn ATC

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Digital Wrap Up 📱✨
What a week it’s been.
As National Cadets Week 2026 comes to a close, today is about looking back at everything that has happened, celebrating what cadets and volunteers have achieved, and sharing the story of what the cadet experience can offer.
Throughout the week we’ve highlighted the many different sides of cadet life — from supporting our local community and celebrating our adult volunteers, to developing lifesaving First Aid skills and building the confidence, leadership and wider Skills for Life that help young people prepare for the future.
National Cadets Week is also an opportunity to show people beyond the Squadron what cadets do. Social media helps take those experiences beyond the parade hall and into the wider community, reaching people who may never previously have considered getting involved.
So as the week comes to an end, we’d like to say thank you to our cadets, adult volunteers, parents/guardians, supporters and everyone who has helped make these opportunities possible.
The week may be over, but the experiences, friendships and skills continue all year round.
Share. Celebrate. Be part of the story.
#NationalCadetsWeek #AirCadets #RAFAC #Team2409 #SkillsForLife #Volunteering #YouthDevelopment #Cadets @comdtac @aircadets @ministryofdefence @aircadets @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets @rafhaltonofficial by @2409haltonatc

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5 days ago

Skills for Life 💜
Being an Air Cadet is about much more than flying.
It gives young people the chance to try new things, take on responsibility and develop skills that can stay with them long after their time in uniform.
Cadets can build leadership and teamwork skills, learn how to communicate confidently and present to others, develop practical First Aid skills, and take part in activities that encourage independence, problem-solving and resilience.
And the opportunities are increasingly technical too.
Through the RAF Air Cadets’ progressive training, cadets can explore cyber and communications, including computer and networking skills, programming and cyber security. They can also study space, learning about subjects such as the solar system, space exploration, satellites and the science and technology behind spaceflight.
There are opportunities to work towards recognised achievements and qualifications too, including leadership qualifications, BTECs, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and even a Level 3 Extended Project Qualification, with projects available in Air, Space and Cyber.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in particular gives cadets the opportunity to develop skills, volunteer, take part in physical activity and complete expeditions, with the chance to progress all the way to Gold.
Whether it’s standing up to brief a group, leading a team, tackling a cyber challenge, navigating an expedition or learning something completely new, every experience helps build confidence, capability and future potential.
Learning today. Ready for tomorrow.
#NationalCadetsWeek #SkillsForLife #AirCadets #RAFAC #Team2409 #Leadership #Cyber #Space #DofE #YouthDevelopment #STEM @comdtac @aircadets @ministryofdefence @aircadetcharity @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets @rafhaltonofficial by @2409haltonatc

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7 days ago

Cadets Save Lives ❤️
One of the most valuable skills our cadets learn is First Aid.
During National Cadets Week, today’s focus is on the lifesaving skills cadets develop through practical, scenario-based training — building the confidence to stay calm, assess a situation and know what to do when someone needs help.
First Aid is more than just another subject on the training programme. It is a skill that can make a real difference at home, at school, at work and out in the community.
By practising realistic scenarios and working together, cadets develop not only First Aid knowledge, but also confidence, teamwork, communication and responsibility. At 2409 (Halton) Squadron, we were lucky to receive a visit from South Central Ambulance Service @scas_999 last month to inspire our Cadets for future careers with the emergency services. For those that follow that path, their time in the Air Cadets and all that they learn is ideal preparation.
You never know when those skills might be needed — and being prepared can make all the difference.
First Aid. Real skills. Real impact.
#NationalCadetsWeek #CadetsSaveLives #FirstAid #AirCadets #RAFAC #Team2409 #SkillsForLife #YouthDevelopment @comdtac @aircadets @aircadetcharity @ministryofdefence @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets @rafhaltonofficial by @2409haltonatc

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8 days ago

Celebrating our Adult Volunteers 💚
Behind every cadet experience is a team of adult volunteers giving their time, skills and enthusiasm to help young people achieve more.
During National Cadets Week, today is about recognising the incredible Cadet Force Adult Volunteers who make opportunities like flying, adventure training, camps, leadership, community events and so much more possible.
Our volunteers all have their own story — how they became involved, the skills and qualifications they have gained along the way, and the reasons they continue to give their time. Together, they help create the experiences, encouragement and support that allow our cadets to grow in confidence and achieve things they may never have thought possible.
So today we simply want to say a huge thank you to all the adult volunteers who give their time to support our Squadron and the wider cadet movement.
We really couldn’t do it without you. 💚
And if you’ve ever wondered whether you could get involved too, National Cadets Week is a great time to find out more about becoming a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer.
#NationalCadetsWeek #NationalCadetsWeek2026 #VolunteerCelebration #AdultVolunteers #CFAV #AirCadets #RAFAC #Team2409 #Volunteering @comdtac @aircadets @ministryofdefence @aircadetcharity @rafhaltonofficial @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets by @2409haltonatc

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9 days ago

Cadets in the Community 💙
Being an Air Cadet is about far more than what happens on squadron nights.
Throughout the year, cadets have opportunities to get involved in their local communities — supporting events, helping organisations and charities, volunteering their time and playing a positive part in the places where they live.
These experiences give cadets the chance to work as a team, meet new people, take responsibility and develop confidence, while making a genuine contribution to the community around them.
Last weekend, we were thrilled to put that into practice by supporting the Girls Festival of Rugby 2026 at RAF Halton. 🏉
It was a fantastic event to be involved with and a great opportunity for our cadets to help support a significant social and sporting event.
A big thank you to everyone involved for giving our cadets the opportunity to play their part, helping with onsite logistics and working with the referees to get the match scores documented and back to the scoring tent.
#NationalCadetsWeek #NationalCadetsWeek2026 #CadetsInTheCommunity #Team2409 #AirCadets #RAFAC #RAFHalton #Community #Volunteering #GirlsRugby @comdtac @aircadets @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets @aircadetcharity @rafhaltonofficial @ministryofdefence by @2409haltonatc

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10 days ago

🇬🇧✈️ Welcome to National Cadets Week 2026!

This week is a chance to celebrate the incredible impact all cadet organisations have on young people across the UK — and we’re proud to be part of it.

For generations, the Cadet Forces have helped young people discover their strengths, broaden their horizons and build the confidence to take on new challenges.

Here at 2409 (Halton) Squadron, that means giving our cadets opportunities to develop through:

✈️ Adventure and new experiences
🤝 Teamwork and friendship
🎖️ Leadership and responsibility
💪 Resilience and personal challenge
🌍 Service to our local community
⭐ Skills and confidence that can last a lifetime

In a rapidly changing world, the opportunity for young people to develop confidence, character, responsibility and a real sense of purpose matters more than ever.

National Cadets Week is also an opportunity to recognise the people who make all of this possible — our adult volunteers, families, supporters and everyone who gives their time and encouragement to help our cadets thrive.

This week, we’ll be celebrating what it means to be a cadet and sharing some of the opportunities, achievements and experiences that make our Squadron so special.

Here’s to our cadets — challenging themselves, supporting each other and aiming high.

#NationalCadetsWeek #NationalCadetsWeek2026 #AirCadets #RAFAC #RoyalAirForceAirCadets #Team2409 @comdtac @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets @aircadets @aircadetcharity @rafhaltonofficial by @2409haltonatc

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11 days ago

An emotional night at 2409 (Halton) Squadron last night as we saw the transition of Squadron leadership from our outgoing OC, Flight Lieutenant Malia, across to our new “Boss”, Pilot Officer Harty.

Flt Lt Malia has been the figurehead, leader, inspiration and guiding hand that has seen the Squadron go from strength to strength. Not only in the number of Cadets that we welcome twice a week, but also in the activities and opportunities that we can deliver for them. While we’re very sad to see Flt Lt Malia step away from the day-to-day Squadron activities, we’re very excited for him in his new role within the Air Cadets, as County Commander for Buckinghamshire. This means that we will continue to see him on a regular basis and so this is more an ‘Au revoir’ than a farewell. He assures us that 2409 Sqn will always be his spiritual home !

We are equally excited to welcome Pilot Officer Harty into his new role as he takes over responsibility for the Squadron. PO Harty has worked hand-in-glove with Flt Lt Malia over the years, being instrumental in the innovation and opportunities we provide to our Cadets, as well as the flawless organisation and delivery. The fruits of this working relationship are now evident in the seamless transition of responsibilities. As our new “Boss”, PO Harty outlined his vision, ambition and ideas that will continue the trajectory of the Squadron and take us to even greater heights, enabling us to deliver the most exceptional Royal Air Force Air Cadet experience for our Cadets.

Flt Lt Malia - On behalf of all the Cadets and Staff, past and present, we want to say “Thank you, Sir !” for your commitment, enthusiasm, sense of humour and all that you have done for the Squadron during your tenure. Congratulations and all the best, from all of us, in your new role as County Commander ! @comdtac @aircadets @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets @rafhaltonofficial by @2409haltonatc

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14 days ago

🎓 Farewell and Good Luck! 🎓

This week, we say goodbye to two of our cadets (FS Fall and Sgt Divito) as they leave us to begin exciting new chapters at university.

Throughout their time with the squadron, both have made valuable contributions, embraced challenges, and created lasting memories. From parade nights and activities and events, they have been fantastic members of our cadet family and role models for those following behind.

While we're sad to see them go, we're incredibly proud of everything they have achieved and know they have bright futures ahead. We hope the skills, experiences and friendships gained through their time in the RAF Air Cadets will serve them well as they take this next step.

On behalf of all the staff and cadets, we wish them every success with their studies and future careers. Remember, once a cadet, always part of the squadron family!

Good luck, and don't be strangers. ✈️

@aircadets @comdtac @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets by @2409haltonatc

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24 days ago

A brilliant Parade Night for 2409 (Halton) Squadron as we welcomed a team from South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.

Our cadets had the chance to get a closer look at the vehicles and equipment, learn more about the work of paramedics and emergency crews, and ask plenty of questions along the way.

All cadets and staff complete Essential First Aid Training as an integral part of their participation in the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, with opportunities to extend and take more advanced training if they wish. A number of our cadets hold an ambition to ultimately work for the emergency services and we’re hugely grateful to the South Central Ambulance Service team for providing such insights and inspiration to our cadets. The first aid skills taught within the Air Cadets could empower a cadet to make one of the most impactful contributions in life - help deliver a successful outcome to a medical emergency. Just one of the many reasons why any eligible young person should consider joining the Air Cadets !

A huge thank you to everyone from South Central Ambulance Service who gave up their time to visit us and make the evening such a memorable one.

A fantastic opportunity, and definitely not an ordinary parade night! by @2409haltonatc

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24 days ago

Activity Week wrapped up in style!

We finished with a brilliant bowling night, full of laughs, friendly competition and a great atmosphere to close out an incredible week.

A huge thank you to our volunteer staff team, whose work started months ago — planning the programme, organising transport, liaising with venues, completing all the paperwork and making sure every detail was in place. Their dedication is what makes weeks like this possible.

If you’d like to volunteer and help shape future activities, get in touch. There’s always room for more people to make a difference.

@comdtac @aircadets @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets @rafhaltonofficial by @2409haltonatc

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2 months ago

Day 3 — RAF Museum Hendon & Battle of Britain Bunker

After a brilliant Day 2 on the High Ropes, where cadets pushed their confidence and teamwork to new heights, Day 3 brought a shift from physical challenge to historical discovery.

We began at the RAF Museum Hendon, exploring aircraft, interactive exhibits and the stories of the people who shaped the RAF. Cadets learned how aviation evolved from early flight to modern air power, gaining a deeper appreciation for the engineering, innovation and service behind the RAF’s history.

In the afternoon, we travelled to the Battle of Britain Bunker in Uxbridge — the underground operations room that played a decisive role in the defence of the UK during 1940. This bunker was the nerve centre of the Dowding System, the world’s first fully integrated air defence network. Radar stations, Observer Corps reports and sector controls fed information into the bunker, allowing controllers to track enemy aircraft and coordinate fighter responses with unprecedented speed and accuracy.

Cadets stood around the original plotting table, seeing how teams worked under immense pressure to update tracks, relay orders and make real‑time decisions. A key part of this operation were the WRAFs (Women’s Royal Air Force), who served as plotters, telephonists and operations staff. Their precision, calmness and teamwork were vital to keeping the system running during the most intense moments of the Battle of Britain.

The bunker has hosted many significant visitors over the years, including **Winston Churchill**, who famously observed operations during the height of the battle, as well as senior RAF leaders and international dignitaries. Standing in the same room offered cadets a powerful sense of the history and responsibility carried by those who worked there.

Today gave cadets a deeper understanding of leadership, communication and coordinated teamwork — themes that connect directly to the skills they’ve been building throughout Activity Week.

Another day of learning, reflection and inspiration as we continue to broaden horizons and deepen understanding.

@comdtac @aircadets @swregionrafac @thames_valley_wing_atc @rafhaltonofficial by @2409haltonatc

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2 months ago

After an incredible day on the High Ropes, our cadets have already shown what confidence, teamwork and personal courage look like in action.

They climbed higher, pushed past nerves and supported each other through every challenge — a brilliant display of resilience and determination.

Tomorrow we shift from height to history as Activity Week continues with a full day of museum visits. This change of pace brings a different kind of development: curiosity, critical thinking and real‑world learning. Cadets will explore interactive exhibits, uncover stories behind artefacts and dive into the past to understand how it shapes the world they operate in today.

@comdtac @aircadets @swregionrafac @@thames_valley_wing_atc @buckinghamshire_air_cadets @rafhaltonofficial by @2409haltonatc

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2 months ago