F/Sgt Dan Leedham, of 44F Bradford Sqn, was presented his BTEC First Diploma (Level 2) in Public Services with the grade of Distinction, equivalent to 4 GCSEs A*-C.
To gain this award, he gained a level of distinction in modules in Public Services employment, services skills, fitness, adventurous activities and teamwork as well as land navigation by map and compass and expedition skills. Most of these activities are covered in general cadet activities, but require a level of commitment and work above and beyond
The Duke of Westminster KG CB OBE TD DL, said: The BTEC Diploma is an internationally recognised qualification that is well respected in both the workplace and institutes of higher education and this award is therefor a platform on which cadets can build a successful future.
This award is one of many open to all cadets, free of charge, between the ages of 16-19 years old.
Tuesday 1 March 2011
Friday 2 April 2010
Bradford Air Cadet Soars as Young Person Of The Year
Less than two weeks after being awarded his solo gliding wings, Sergeant Dan Leedham of 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron has been presented with the prestigious “RAF Associations Young Person of the Year" Award for the Yorkshire Region.
After spending four weekends at 642 VGS (Volunteer Gliding Squadron) at RAF Linton-on-Ouse and racking up over 8 hours of flying, Dan was privileged to fly a Vigilant T1 powered glider solo, which resulted in the award of the sought-after silver wings.
He was one of 3 cadets to fly solo that weekend. Previous days had proved difficult for flying due to the high winds and snow showers, but a beautiful Sunday provided perfect conditions for the lucky cadets to go solo.
Hot on the heels of this achievement, Dan was awarded the Royal Air Force Associations Young Person of the Year Award for Yorkshire Region. Having been nominated by his own squadron to be entered into Bradford District’s selection, Dan was put forward to represent Bradford in the Regional competition. After studying the entries the judges whittled the entrants down to a top three who were invited for an interview and formal award ceremony.
Harsh weather and the nationwide postal strike postponed the interviews until Yorkshire Region’s AGM where the top three entrants - all Air Cadets - were interviewed by the judging panel. The awards were given at the beginning of the AGM with a very warm reception from RAFA delegates from all over the region.
Flying Officer Crawford, Adjutant for 44F, said it was a great pleasure to present Dan with the two awards. “This is a fitting reward for the hard work he’s put in. I am sure there will be plenty more awards and trophies won by the other great cadets at 44F (City of Bradford) Sqn in the coming year."
Speaking on behalf of the RAFA Bradford Branch, Mr Charles Ebbage said “Sergeant Leedham should be very proud. The other entrants were also very strong candidates but he just clinched it. We wish him the best with his future aspirations and his career in the Air Force.”
When hes not busy with his Air Cadet activities, Dan enjoys playing music and teaches the guitar to younger children. He has been on various mission trips abroad, and is a keen web developer. He is currently doing his AS levels at Ilkley Grammar School and is looking forward to joining the RAF as a pilot upon completion of his studies.
44F (City of Bradford) Squadron welcomes girls and boys from 13 to 17 who are interested in becoming Air Cadets. Contact us on 01274 742954 (Monday and Friday evenings) or at 44@aircadets.org for more.
After spending four weekends at 642 VGS (Volunteer Gliding Squadron) at RAF Linton-on-Ouse and racking up over 8 hours of flying, Dan was privileged to fly a Vigilant T1 powered glider solo, which resulted in the award of the sought-after silver wings.
He was one of 3 cadets to fly solo that weekend. Previous days had proved difficult for flying due to the high winds and snow showers, but a beautiful Sunday provided perfect conditions for the lucky cadets to go solo.
Hot on the heels of this achievement, Dan was awarded the Royal Air Force Associations Young Person of the Year Award for Yorkshire Region. Having been nominated by his own squadron to be entered into Bradford District’s selection, Dan was put forward to represent Bradford in the Regional competition. After studying the entries the judges whittled the entrants down to a top three who were invited for an interview and formal award ceremony.
Harsh weather and the nationwide postal strike postponed the interviews until Yorkshire Region’s AGM where the top three entrants - all Air Cadets - were interviewed by the judging panel. The awards were given at the beginning of the AGM with a very warm reception from RAFA delegates from all over the region.
Flying Officer Crawford, Adjutant for 44F, said it was a great pleasure to present Dan with the two awards. “This is a fitting reward for the hard work he’s put in. I am sure there will be plenty more awards and trophies won by the other great cadets at 44F (City of Bradford) Sqn in the coming year."
Speaking on behalf of the RAFA Bradford Branch, Mr Charles Ebbage said “Sergeant Leedham should be very proud. The other entrants were also very strong candidates but he just clinched it. We wish him the best with his future aspirations and his career in the Air Force.”
When hes not busy with his Air Cadet activities, Dan enjoys playing music and teaches the guitar to younger children. He has been on various mission trips abroad, and is a keen web developer. He is currently doing his AS levels at Ilkley Grammar School and is looking forward to joining the RAF as a pilot upon completion of his studies.
44F (City of Bradford) Squadron welcomes girls and boys from 13 to 17 who are interested in becoming Air Cadets. Contact us on 01274 742954 (Monday and Friday evenings) or at 44@aircadets.org for more.
Tuesday 8 September 2009
Bradford Cadets interview the Chief of the Air Staff
North Region Air Cadets are currently running a project to produce a new Air Cadet Organisation promotional DVD and are gathering footage to include in the final version. When they found out that the head of the Royal Air Force, Chief of the Air Staff, (CAS) Air Chief Marshall Sir Stephen Dalton, was going to be in the area, North Region Media Communications Officer, Squadron Leader Mike Wadsworth saw this as an opportunity not to be missed.
The Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington was the location for a Battle of Britain parade and service on 6th September 2009 and Sir Stephen was the principle guest. Some hasty requests went into Headquarters Air Cadets and approval was granted to speak with CAS. Supported by the Yorkshire Air Museum, a slot was found in a very full diary of events and project officer, Assistant Wing Media Communications Officer (South & West Yorkshire), Civilian Instructor Yaseen Rahman was tasked with directing the interview. Luckily Yaseen works for the BBC in Yorkshire as a director for Look North News and was keen to do the task.
So it was, just after lunch on Sunday 6th September 2009, that Cadet Corporal Jordine Bostock, 15, and Cadet Corporal Sami Rahman, 14, of 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron waited anxiously at the Spitfire exhibit for CAS to arrive. Following a quick introduction and the fitting of a radio microphone, the interview began with each of the Cadet Corporals asking a series of probing questions of Sir Stephen and receiving a comprehensive reply.
With the coolness of professional presenters, Jordine and Sami completed the interview in time for Sir Stephen to head off to take part in the parade and service. The only other task was for the fill in shots, called “Noddies” to be done before the whole thing was “In the can”.
“I never thought when I joined Air Cadets that one day I would be interviewing the head of the Royal Air Force on camera” said Jordine and added “I was really nervous about meeting him but he was really nice and friendly and soon put me at ease.”
Sami added, “Sir Stephen was really supportive of the Air Cadets and as a former cadet himself said he was keen to see the organisation grow and prosper. I was really honoured to meet him and even better, have that meeting recorded as part of the DVD project.”
Regional MCO Squadron Leader Mike Wadsworth commented, “Sami and Jordine did a superb job of the interview. It’s a daunting prospect doing an interview on camera for anybody but they were really cool headed and very professional. Both of them were a credit to the organisation and aquitted themselves very well indeed. I’m looking forward to seeing the final product.”
The Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington was the location for a Battle of Britain parade and service on 6th September 2009 and Sir Stephen was the principle guest. Some hasty requests went into Headquarters Air Cadets and approval was granted to speak with CAS. Supported by the Yorkshire Air Museum, a slot was found in a very full diary of events and project officer, Assistant Wing Media Communications Officer (South & West Yorkshire), Civilian Instructor Yaseen Rahman was tasked with directing the interview. Luckily Yaseen works for the BBC in Yorkshire as a director for Look North News and was keen to do the task.
So it was, just after lunch on Sunday 6th September 2009, that Cadet Corporal Jordine Bostock, 15, and Cadet Corporal Sami Rahman, 14, of 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron waited anxiously at the Spitfire exhibit for CAS to arrive. Following a quick introduction and the fitting of a radio microphone, the interview began with each of the Cadet Corporals asking a series of probing questions of Sir Stephen and receiving a comprehensive reply.
With the coolness of professional presenters, Jordine and Sami completed the interview in time for Sir Stephen to head off to take part in the parade and service. The only other task was for the fill in shots, called “Noddies” to be done before the whole thing was “In the can”.
“I never thought when I joined Air Cadets that one day I would be interviewing the head of the Royal Air Force on camera” said Jordine and added “I was really nervous about meeting him but he was really nice and friendly and soon put me at ease.”
Sami added, “Sir Stephen was really supportive of the Air Cadets and as a former cadet himself said he was keen to see the organisation grow and prosper. I was really honoured to meet him and even better, have that meeting recorded as part of the DVD project.”
Regional MCO Squadron Leader Mike Wadsworth commented, “Sami and Jordine did a superb job of the interview. It’s a daunting prospect doing an interview on camera for anybody but they were really cool headed and very professional. Both of them were a credit to the organisation and aquitted themselves very well indeed. I’m looking forward to seeing the final product.”
Sunday 9 August 2009
RAF Halton Summer Camp 2009
I and 4 other cadets form 44F (City of Bradford) Sqn were part of the 47 strong summer camp at RAF Halton, Buckinghamshire, the Recruit Training and Airman’s Command Squadron home base. We arrived to refreshing southern rain after a coach ride down from Yorkshire.
RAF Halton, established July 1914, is a non-technical ground training station which deals with initial training (usually 9 weeks) for all non-commissioned entrants to the Royal Air Force except the RAF regiment. With this in mind we were staying on one of the busiest and active RAF stations. On arrival we were sorted into flights and rooms before our initial brief, basic fire, health and safety followed by staff introductions. For the majority of the camp we were to be in uniform to distinguish us from the new civilian entrants as otherwise this would be impossible - some of the cadets were older than the recruits!
A dash through the rain to a long awaited tea was welcomed by all before setting out on our first Familiarization Exercise (Fam-ex). This involves exploring the RAF station and getting to know what’s what and where it is - making it easier for navigation later in the week.
Sunday was early up and an RAF cooked breakfast before the camp split in 2 groups; one for flying first and drill later and the other vise versa. After flying at RAF Benson 6AEF we returned to Halton ready to leave for bowling that evening. After a long day we couldn’t wait to get to bed and continue with the exciting week ahead.
Monday saw out first section visit; RTS or Recruit Training Squadron and then the Lord Trenchard Museum. Camp photo then off to the catering section for an insight into the business and training of the vital role. Monday night was planned the night-exercise so we cam creamed up and set off in our DPMs all syked for our missions. After a lesson in Cam and Concealment we were split into 4 sections to finish our given missions. Soon light levels dropped and we were working in the total darkness. Once completed we headed back to the barrack block.
Tuesday was met bleiry eyed and bleiry weathered as the usually morning routine of up, dress, breakfast and inspection commenced. We headed for the high ropes course on the station which was enjoyed by all. We then started training on the L98A1 rifle and carried this on for most of the afternoon. In the evening we were kept busy in the swimming pool with cadets participating in the basic and intermediate swimming competence awards and then chilling with a free swim.
Wednesday morning was a visit to the logistics training squadron where we experenced the full line of training and learnt about the most diverse trade in the air force. The afternoon saw Weapon’s Handling Tests, more training and drill followed by an orienteering exercise that afternoon based in the woods outside the station. In the evening we set off for our Physical Training session with huge games of rounders which was loved by all - especially the clear winners A Flight.
Thursday saw more weapons training and shooting with most cadets firing the L98A1. In the evening was the much anticipated drill competition held in the main drill hall at Halton and the occasion was marked by a Corporal with 9 years Queen’s Color Squadron experience. The competition was very close and everyone performed amazingly and compliments and crepitations were given out.
For our last real day on Friday we had a trip to Duxford Air Museum or training on the L98A2. Those that went to Duxford had an amazing time at one of the country’s best collections of airplanes and exhibitions. They were met by the lucky cadets trained on the A2 that evening for the camp’s final parade. The parade was taken by the Commanding Officer and he announced certain awards for best cadet, JNCO, SNCO, Shooter, New Cadet and more as well as announcing the winner of the inter-flight competition - B Flight. We then changed and set off for the camp disco. The disco was enjoyed by all - including the staff who joined in! It gave time and chance for more relaxed friendship building and start relationships that will last a very long time. After a short time packing we jumped into bed for our promised lie in - breakfast being pushed back almost an hour!
After an emotional last RAF meal we packed and cleaned and said good byes with the cadets ‘paper plate’ awards for fellow cadets and staff members. The final coach ride back North was slept by some exhausted cadets and staff while others spent the valuable time trading Facebook and MSN details and discussed plans for meeting up later.
On the whole everyone had an amazing week meeting new people, joining in with various activities, gaining experiences and lessons we will keep for a long time to come. We thank the staff who were with us and those at RAF Halton for making it a week to remember!
RAF Halton, established July 1914, is a non-technical ground training station which deals with initial training (usually 9 weeks) for all non-commissioned entrants to the Royal Air Force except the RAF regiment. With this in mind we were staying on one of the busiest and active RAF stations. On arrival we were sorted into flights and rooms before our initial brief, basic fire, health and safety followed by staff introductions. For the majority of the camp we were to be in uniform to distinguish us from the new civilian entrants as otherwise this would be impossible - some of the cadets were older than the recruits!
A dash through the rain to a long awaited tea was welcomed by all before setting out on our first Familiarization Exercise (Fam-ex). This involves exploring the RAF station and getting to know what’s what and where it is - making it easier for navigation later in the week.
Sunday was early up and an RAF cooked breakfast before the camp split in 2 groups; one for flying first and drill later and the other vise versa. After flying at RAF Benson 6AEF we returned to Halton ready to leave for bowling that evening. After a long day we couldn’t wait to get to bed and continue with the exciting week ahead.
Monday saw out first section visit; RTS or Recruit Training Squadron and then the Lord Trenchard Museum. Camp photo then off to the catering section for an insight into the business and training of the vital role. Monday night was planned the night-exercise so we cam creamed up and set off in our DPMs all syked for our missions. After a lesson in Cam and Concealment we were split into 4 sections to finish our given missions. Soon light levels dropped and we were working in the total darkness. Once completed we headed back to the barrack block.
Tuesday was met bleiry eyed and bleiry weathered as the usually morning routine of up, dress, breakfast and inspection commenced. We headed for the high ropes course on the station which was enjoyed by all. We then started training on the L98A1 rifle and carried this on for most of the afternoon. In the evening we were kept busy in the swimming pool with cadets participating in the basic and intermediate swimming competence awards and then chilling with a free swim.
Wednesday morning was a visit to the logistics training squadron where we experenced the full line of training and learnt about the most diverse trade in the air force. The afternoon saw Weapon’s Handling Tests, more training and drill followed by an orienteering exercise that afternoon based in the woods outside the station. In the evening we set off for our Physical Training session with huge games of rounders which was loved by all - especially the clear winners A Flight.
Thursday saw more weapons training and shooting with most cadets firing the L98A1. In the evening was the much anticipated drill competition held in the main drill hall at Halton and the occasion was marked by a Corporal with 9 years Queen’s Color Squadron experience. The competition was very close and everyone performed amazingly and compliments and crepitations were given out.
For our last real day on Friday we had a trip to Duxford Air Museum or training on the L98A2. Those that went to Duxford had an amazing time at one of the country’s best collections of airplanes and exhibitions. They were met by the lucky cadets trained on the A2 that evening for the camp’s final parade. The parade was taken by the Commanding Officer and he announced certain awards for best cadet, JNCO, SNCO, Shooter, New Cadet and more as well as announcing the winner of the inter-flight competition - B Flight. We then changed and set off for the camp disco. The disco was enjoyed by all - including the staff who joined in! It gave time and chance for more relaxed friendship building and start relationships that will last a very long time. After a short time packing we jumped into bed for our promised lie in - breakfast being pushed back almost an hour!
After an emotional last RAF meal we packed and cleaned and said good byes with the cadets ‘paper plate’ awards for fellow cadets and staff members. The final coach ride back North was slept by some exhausted cadets and staff while others spent the valuable time trading Facebook and MSN details and discussed plans for meeting up later.
On the whole everyone had an amazing week meeting new people, joining in with various activities, gaining experiences and lessons we will keep for a long time to come. We thank the staff who were with us and those at RAF Halton for making it a week to remember!
Saturday 8 August 2009
Air Cadets take part in Lord Mayors Parade
The Lord Mayors Parade through the City of Bradford was themed as the year of Astronomy. Almost everyone had a space theme. 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron were invited to take part in the parade due to meeting Astronauts and Cosmonauts during the last two years. The day was filled with excitement and thrills.
The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress sat in Bessie, the 3rd Doctor Who’s beloved car followed by a Brass Band and 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron who were lead by Flying Officer Lizzy Crawford RAFVR(T). As the parade progressed toward Centenary Square, everyone was met by Hagrid from the Harry Potter movies and Galileo the astronomer.
The day took an unusual twist when Lord Vader from Star Wars turned up with his Storm Troopers. The Cadets from Bradford Squadron were soon to find themselves on the wrong side of Lord Vader, who instructed his Storm Troopers to arrest the cadets.... Cadet Zain Rahman 13 and Cadet Ricket 13 were surrounded by four mean looking Storm Troopers.
What could we do, “I know” Shouted Civilian Instructor Yaseen Rahman “get Harry Potter to help us” No sooner had Harry Potter arrived than the Storm Troopers vanished. Watching all the commotion was Dr Who, who impressed at how the cadets dealt with the Storm Troopers, invited them to have a look at Bessie.
It was a fun day out and a proud moment for the cadets to march through the streets of Bradford.
Officer Commanding Flight Lieutenant Robin Farman RAFVR(T) said “We teach the cadets to think on their feet in difficult situations. It’s obviously working on the Adult Staff as well. It was a privilege and an honour that the Squadron was invited to take part in the Lord Mayor’s Parade”
Do you think you have what it takes to handle Darth Vader and his Storm Troopers? If so; 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron is looking for young people aged 13 to 17. The Squadron Parades at Belle Vue Barracks, off Manningham Lane, Bradford BD8 7HY every Monday and Friday, 7pm-9pm.
The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress sat in Bessie, the 3rd Doctor Who’s beloved car followed by a Brass Band and 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron who were lead by Flying Officer Lizzy Crawford RAFVR(T). As the parade progressed toward Centenary Square, everyone was met by Hagrid from the Harry Potter movies and Galileo the astronomer.
The day took an unusual twist when Lord Vader from Star Wars turned up with his Storm Troopers. The Cadets from Bradford Squadron were soon to find themselves on the wrong side of Lord Vader, who instructed his Storm Troopers to arrest the cadets.... Cadet Zain Rahman 13 and Cadet Ricket 13 were surrounded by four mean looking Storm Troopers.
What could we do, “I know” Shouted Civilian Instructor Yaseen Rahman “get Harry Potter to help us” No sooner had Harry Potter arrived than the Storm Troopers vanished. Watching all the commotion was Dr Who, who impressed at how the cadets dealt with the Storm Troopers, invited them to have a look at Bessie.
It was a fun day out and a proud moment for the cadets to march through the streets of Bradford.
Officer Commanding Flight Lieutenant Robin Farman RAFVR(T) said “We teach the cadets to think on their feet in difficult situations. It’s obviously working on the Adult Staff as well. It was a privilege and an honour that the Squadron was invited to take part in the Lord Mayor’s Parade”
Do you think you have what it takes to handle Darth Vader and his Storm Troopers? If so; 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron is looking for young people aged 13 to 17. The Squadron Parades at Belle Vue Barracks, off Manningham Lane, Bradford BD8 7HY every Monday and Friday, 7pm-9pm.
Wednesday 15 July 2009
Squadron Embraces the D of E Awards
Cadets at 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron have embraced the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme (D of E) with all cadets taken part in, either, their Bronze, Silver or Gold Award.
In order to achieve the awards the cadets have to complete various tasks, covering Skills, Service, Volunteering and an Expedition. Each cadet has chosen what they want to do for the various sections and how long it would take them to do the task. First Aid and Expedition modules are taught, including camp craft skills.With the whole Squadron involved it makes achieving the Awards a little easier when you undertake task with people you know, for the cadets it was easy, because they learn to work as a team and to help each other.
Officer Commanding Flight Lieutenant Robin Farman RAFVR(T) said “The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is an Internationally recognised Life Skill. The skills the Cadets gain are easily transferred to working life and as such the D of E is an excellent addition to the Cadets life portfolio. I am immensely proud of the Cadets for taking on this challenge and look forward to the day I see them all being presented with their Awards.
In order to achieve the awards the cadets have to complete various tasks, covering Skills, Service, Volunteering and an Expedition. Each cadet has chosen what they want to do for the various sections and how long it would take them to do the task. First Aid and Expedition modules are taught, including camp craft skills.With the whole Squadron involved it makes achieving the Awards a little easier when you undertake task with people you know, for the cadets it was easy, because they learn to work as a team and to help each other.
Officer Commanding Flight Lieutenant Robin Farman RAFVR(T) said “The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is an Internationally recognised Life Skill. The skills the Cadets gain are easily transferred to working life and as such the D of E is an excellent addition to the Cadets life portfolio. I am immensely proud of the Cadets for taking on this challenge and look forward to the day I see them all being presented with their Awards.
Tuesday 14 July 2009
Cadets ready to assist
Air Cadets at 44F (City of Bradford) Squadron have successfully gained the Heart Start qualification which forms part of the First Class Syllabus. Almost everyone at the Squadron is now qualified and the Cadets can now move forward to the more advanced levels of First Aid.
the course was run by Sgt ATC Rouse. It is important that the Cadets learn First Aid, as they embark on activities such as camping, The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Flying & Gliding. Knowing that they will be able to help and assist should the need arise. The skills learnt can also be used at home, school and in everyday situations. The cadets spent the qualifying eight hours, learning the techniques required and practising (using the resuss dummies) until they could do the techniques with ease.
Officer Commanding Flight Lieutenant Robin Farman RAFVR(T) said “As someone who is themselves a qualified First Aider. It pleases me to see the Cadets complete their Heart Start training. It is a life skill which is extremely useful outside of the Cadets.
the course was run by Sgt ATC Rouse. It is important that the Cadets learn First Aid, as they embark on activities such as camping, The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Flying & Gliding. Knowing that they will be able to help and assist should the need arise. The skills learnt can also be used at home, school and in everyday situations. The cadets spent the qualifying eight hours, learning the techniques required and practising (using the resuss dummies) until they could do the techniques with ease.
Officer Commanding Flight Lieutenant Robin Farman RAFVR(T) said “As someone who is themselves a qualified First Aider. It pleases me to see the Cadets complete their Heart Start training. It is a life skill which is extremely useful outside of the Cadets.
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