RAF Cadets Enjoy Spring Field Trip

Alongside recent trips for the army and navy sections of the College’s CCF, the Royal Air Force cadets enjoyed a spring field trip of their own to RAF Benson. Officer in charge of the RAF section, Fl Lt Peter Hewerstone, kindly provided a report of the day’s events:

“Resplendent in their newly issued blue working dress uniform, 33 recruits and 6 senior RAF cadets arrived and RAF Benson and were met by Flt Sgt Cassidy, who provided them with a brief introduction to the station followed by a history presentation of 230 Squadron, who were our hosts for the day.

The remainder of the morning comprised of visits to 230 squadron's hanger to take a close look at the latest version of the Puma helicopter, followed by a visit to the police flight helicopter and finally the Oxfordshire air ambulance. Interestingly, the latter two helicopters were identical types but, as might be imagined, equipped completely differently to suit their individual roles. In all cases, the cadets were encouraged to ask questions relating to the use and operation of the three contrasting helicopter types. The morning outlined the stark contrast in how civilian and military aircraft are deployed.

A working lunch followed, attended by Ft Sgt Cassidy, who made himself available to discuss life and opportunities in the RAF and to talk to individuals who were interested in pursuing a potential career in service. The afternoon saw an onboard visit to the Merlin helicopter, led by Ft Sgt Bradley, who introduced the cadets to the onboard systems and equipment. 'Bradders', to cite his nick name, also spoke of his RAF career, countries he had visited, and sports opportunities available in the RAF.

The remainder of the visit comprised of a look around the Fire Section and the Air Traffic Control Centre. The latter offered an insight into flight management and cadets were able to see and hear helicopters departing and making their instrument approaches. They were also shown the radar systems, which tracked aircraft overflying the station.

This visit provided the cadets with a useful review of day to day life and operations on an active RAF station and further cemented the relationship between Shiplake College and RAF Benson. Although we were unable to fly with 230 Squadron as hoped, we left with the hope that 230 might be able to land at the College later this year and offer air experience flights to the cadets.”