Royal Air Force Air Cadets
282 (East Ham) Squadron
The premier youth organisation in Newham, East London
About us
282 (East Ham) Squadron is one of over 1,000 squadrons across the UK that offer young people exciting opportunities for personal and professional development. We’re an inclusive organisation that cares about helping young people reach their potential.
What we do
Our young people and adult volunteers get the opportunity to take part in a number of extra-curricular activities, from flying and gliding to adventurous training and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking, there is so much on offer to all!
Contact us
Interested in joining?
If aged 12-17, you can join as a cadet.
Aged 18+, you can join as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer and make a huge difference to the lives of young people.
Our connections
The Squadron is proud to work alongside and be supported by many organisations within the London community.
Offering our young people the ultimate challenge
The sky is the limit?
Venture out of your comfort zone and develop your skillset with us.
Our dedicated team of adult volunteers
The Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) in the RAF Air Cadets play a crucial role in the organization, providing guidance, training, and leadership to the cadets. Their purpose is multifaceted, and they are essential to the smooth operation and success of the cadet program. What to join the adult team?
Opportunities Open To You
The RAF Air Cadets offers a wealth of extra-curricular activities. Here are snippets of whats on offer:
Air & Space
Opportunities for hands-on experiences in flying and gliding, and aerospace/space education.
Adventure Training
A chance to push your limits and discover your full potential on land and in the water.
Classroom Training & Education
Gain qualifications that will help with your education and careers.
Fieldcraft
Practice your military skills and techniques used in outdoor environments.
Duke of Edinburgh Award
Complete all levels with us and gain an award recognised nationally
Radio & Cyber
Develop cutting-edge cyber and radio communication skills, learning to operate secure systems and manage networks.
Endless Opportunities
Some images of our cadets and staff doing what they enjoy in the RAF Air Cadets.
Frequently Asked Question
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
Does it cost to be an air cadet?
There is a small subscription cost, and this depends on the unit you’re at. Our subscription cost is £8 per month.
What if I only want to do certain activities?
We encourage cadets to try new things. Not everything will be your ‘cup of tea’ but give it a go. Cadets are never forced into doing an activity but to get the most out of the organsiation, give it a try if you have never done it before.
Do I have to purchase uniform?
The Royal Air Force issues every cadet with the standard ‘Blue’ uniform. The Multi-Purpose Terrain uniform (combat uniform) is not issued but we do have a supplier that can offer the uniform at very competitive rates.
I have exams at school, can I take parade evenings off?
We never interfere in school examinations, and we try to avoid organsiation events during the school day. If a cadet needs to take time off then this is fine, we only ask that we are notified. Some activities have to take place during school term time, such as flying. We do seek permission from school if this is the case.
I need to leave the RAF Air Cadets, can I leave whenever I want?
The RAF Air Cadets is a voluntary organisation, and anyone can leave the organsiation at any time. All we ask is that you discuss the matter with the Commanding Officer first
What age can you join as a cadet?
We recruit from the age of 12 up to 17. However, it is best to join at the lower age range to ensure you get the most out of the organisation.
What happens once I join as a cadet?
You undertake a 4-6 month recruit training programme which is designed to teach you the basics of being an Air Cadet. We try to make it as fun and engaging as possible but understand it may not be for you and you can leave at any time.
When does the squadron operate?
Our particular unit parades on a Monday and Friday evening, from 7pm to around 9.45pm. We do encourage cadets to attend both evenings to gain from the cadet experience.
Is the squadron open all year?
Mostly, yes. We only close during national holidays such as Christmas and Easter.
I want to join as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer (Adult Staff), what is the commitment required?
We ask adult volunteers to commit to both parade evenings a week, but completely understand that its voluntary and you may not be able to do so. For a squadron to operate successfully, it needs support form its adult volunteers. It is important to communicate with the squadron if you cannot attend a parade evening.
Don’t Just Take Our Word For it
This is what members of our squadron have to say..
★★★★★
This place has changed my child’s life and therefore mine, starting from him being fit, responsible and…. pressing his uniform himself after few years of being there.
Parent
★★★★★
Great people aspiring to be leaders!
Ex air cadet
★★★★★
My granddaughter started almost 3 months and she really enjoys it, she has already learnt new skills, and there are so many opportunities and great things to learn and do along the way.
Grand Parent
Join Our Team