Local cadets and volunteers embracing challenge, excitement and adventure.
Founded in 1941
1312 Squadron (City of Southend-on-Sea) Air Cadets are located at London Southend Airport and are one of the largest squadrons in Essex.
The Royal Air Force Air Cadets is an inclusive organisation and is committed to assisting local young people in realising their full potential. 1312 Squadron is one of 27 squadrons across Essex, which together form the Essex Wing Air Cadets, encompassing over 1,000 cadets across the region and is a vital part of the larger RAF Air Cadets Organisation.
In keeping with the organisation’s motto “Venture – Adventure”, each year we take part in many activities including flying, gliding, target shooting, adventure training, team building, Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, the squadron band and various sports including football, athletics, cross country and swimming.
Volunteers
Each squadron is run by dedicated Uniformed and Civilian Volunteers Staff members.
The Royal Air Force Air Cadets relies on its cadet forces adult volunteers (CFAV) to support our cadets. You can help our squadron and allow us to offer a wide-range of activities and opportunities. There are lots of ways you can join us and make a difference.
Being a volunteer is rewarding – you’ll gain a huge sense of achievement from helping young people realise their potential.
- Learn skills in a range of areas
- Develop leadership qualities
- Personal development
- Gain qualifications in areas like mountain leadership, first aid and NVQs
Civilian Committee
Each squadron has a Civilian Committee consisting of five or more local people who meet regularly to assist the squadron’s Commanding Officer in areas such as Raising Funds for the squadron, helping with cadet welfare and to generally ensure the squadron maintains direction.
Our Civilian Committee is made up of parents and friends of our cadets. We are always looking for new enthusiastic volunteers who can offer some of their time and experience in assisting to maintain the cadets’ overall experience.
Aims of the RAF Air Cadets
The Royal Air Force Air Cadets is exciting, fun, and truly rewarding. Cadets have the opportunity to take part in a whole host of adventurous training opportunities and develop invaluable skills while meeting lots of like-minded people from all walks of life.
- Encourage a practical interest in aviation and the RAF
- Provide training that will be useful in the Services as well as civilian life
- Encourage the spirit of adventure
- Develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship
Offering young people exciting opportunities for personal and professional development
43,000
Total Air Cadets
10,000
Volunteer staff across the UK
1,000+
Squadrons across the UK