From Commandant 2 FTS
Proposed Aviation Training Package
The proposed courses are as follows:
a. Cadet Aviation Familiarisation Course (FAM).
b. Blue Wings Aviation Training Package (Blue ATP).
c. Bronze Wings Aviation Training Package (Bronze ATP).
d. Silver Wings Gliding Scholarship (SGS).
e. Gold Wings Gliding Training (GWGT)
Cadet Aviation Familiarisation (FAM) Course. This course is aimed at ab-initio cadets, expected to be aged from 12 years to 13 years and 3 months. The training would be based on the fundamental principles of airmanship with practical exposure to the principles on the PTT. On completion of the course, the cadets would receive a ‘FAM Course Completion Certificate’.
Blue Wings Aviation Training Package (Blue ATP). The Blue course would develop the principles learnt on the FAM course. Cadets would receive practical training in the effects of controls (roll, pitch, and yaw) in the PTT and then experience a glider or AEF flight to consolidate training.(It should be noted that the PTT footprint is currently under review by HQ 2FTS. It is expected that final PTT locations will help to address issues raised by geographic disadvantage of some cadet units to their nearest VGS/AEF.) Upon completion of this package cadets will be awarded Blue Wings.
Bronze Wings Aviation Training Package (Bronze ATP). The aim of the Bronze Wings ATP is to introduce more complex flying techniques which help assess the individuals training capacity and their suitability for further training. The course will contain practical exercises in the PTT and flights in either the Vigilant or Viking. The current minimum age for a cadet to fly solo is 16 years. The recommended start date for a cadet on the Bronze ATP is 15 years. (due to potential skill fade)
Silver Wings Gliding Scholarship (SGS). Longer term, the completion of the Bronze ATP will be a pre-requisite for the SGS. The Silver GS will follow the format of the current Gliding Scholarship (GS).
Gold Wings Gliding Training. Completion of a solo glider flight is a pre-requisite for the GWGT. The Gold Wings Course will follow the current Advanced Glider Training course (AGT).
The use of VGS, AEF and PTT facilities will enable each cadet to receive ground school training synthetic flying, gliding and light aircraft experience to a structured syllabus. The progressive nature of the package will introduce the cadet to a wider spectrum of aviation subjects than currently exposed. Work is also on going to develop a training package for those volunteers who would like to deliver the FAM and Blue wings package on the PTT. The “Blue to Gold” award mirrors the future ACO aspirations with regards to other cadet progressive training. More detailed information will be promulgated as these training packages mature.