Cadets and staff from Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing attended two courses run recently at DCAE Cosford and organised by the Wing Training Team.

Cadets attended a structured drill and development course which was assessed and ended with an examination. During the weekend each cadet was tutored by a Wing DI and Adult Sgt and given the opportunity to develop and practice their own personal style and method of teaching and implementing drill manoeuvres on the parade square. The course was a mixture of theory and practical delivered by the DIs.

In addition they were taught ‘stick drill’ and at the end of the course completed a stick drill presentation and a continuity display in front of the trainers and staff.

Adult staff also undertook their BASIC training over the weekend and were advised on the Corps structure, health and safety procedures, child welfare etc, and were involved in some practical exercises to help them consolidate their learning.

The Wing Training & Personnel Officer Squadron Leader Martin Harrison said “To run two courses simultaneously is no mean feat and I must thank all members of the training team who attended and put some real effort into making both courses such a success. The Wing Warrant Officer Jim Sinfield and WO Mandy Hobbins from 8F Squadron really put some hard work into the drill course and I am especially pleased that it is now assessed and that cadets have the opportunity to do some different things such as working with the drill canes. I hope that next year we can also include some Banner Drill”

Sqn Ldr Harrison is also hopeful that next year the course will qualify towards BTEC and is presently arranging to have it assessed by CVQO.