Currently overhauling my Sqns procedure with recruit intakes, this question is two fold:
A) How does your sqn manage intakes and what does the timeline of progression to first class look like?
B) How much time should i set aside for cadets reaching the Drill 1 standard?
I have seen a few different approaches both Squadrons recruited bi-annually in September and January. The downside to the September intake is not much time till remembrance parades etc but that is going off our local school terms.
After the standard H&S briefings etc on the first parade night. Regarding 1st class I have seen 2 different approaches, one is to cover all the theory and practical element (apart from drill) over 2 days in a weekend. Usually you would need 08:00-17:00 to do this but if commitment is there they are left with just the foot drill to do on Squadron nights.
Both Squadrons have implemented having the new intake in a separate flight to the main Squadron incorporating them to the Squadron flights later.
For me personally I like the weekend extensive course although it is quite intense in a way it takes off a load and the parade nights can be used for learning and practicing drill and 1st class can be achieved quickly
If taught properly and regulary, circa 8 weeks
In my squadron the probationer time is 6 months. In that time we learn drill, ranks, and basic ATC knowledge.
However nobody seems willing to correct cadets who are making errors or need to really polidh their drill skills.Hopefully that changes…in my squadron anyway.