247 (Ashton-under-Lyne) Squadron Air Cadets · The Next Generation
247 Squadron

Royal Air Force Air Cadets

247
(Ashton-under-Lyne)
Squadron

247 (Ashton-under-Lyne) Squadron is part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets. We welcome young people aged 12–17 from Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside and the surrounding area.

How to Join What We Do

We are 247 (Ashton-under-Lyne) Squadron Air Cadets. Our squadron is staffed entirely by dedicated volunteers who give their time to create outstanding opportunities for young people. Whether you're aiming for a career in aviation, the Armed Forces, or simply looking to develop confidence, teamwork, and life skills — there's a place for you here.

Latest News

The latest updates, events and achievements from 247 Squadron.

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What We Do

Air Cadets get to take part in a huge range of activities — many of which would be impossible to access elsewhere. Here's a taster of what's on offer at 247 Squadron.

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Flying & Gliding

Air experience flights, gliding scholarships and the Pilot Experience Scheme give cadets the chance to get airborne.

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Adventure Training

Rock climbing, hillwalking, kayaking and more — building resilience, teamwork and confidence in the great outdoors.

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Camps & Station Visits

Annual camps at RAF stations and overseas give cadets an insight into Service life and unique once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

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Duke of Edinburgh's Award

We actively support cadets through Bronze, Silver and Gold DofE, developing skills, volunteering and physical activity.

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Fieldcraft

Navigation, camouflage and field skills — cadets learn military tactics in realistic outdoor training exercises.

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Shooting

Training with .22 and air rifles develops focus and discipline. Cadets can compete at wing and national level.

Sports

Football, athletics, swimming and more — sport is a key part of cadet life, with inter-squadron competitions throughout the year.

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STEM

Rocketry, coding, cyber challenges and aviation science — linking Air Cadet activities to real-world skills for the future.

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Pilot Experience Scheme

Our most motivated cadets can progress through the Pilot Experience Scheme for powered flying opportunities.

How to Join

Our Squadron runs set intakes throughout the year, where new recruits join at the same time and develop together through recruit training — culminating in a pass-out parade that families are invited to attend.

For details of the next intake, and be added to our waiting list, please use the national Squadron Finder form.

To be eligible to join, you must be at least 12 and in school year 8.

Where to Find Us

Squadron Location

247 (Ashton-under-Lyne) Squadron is located at:
The Armoury
Cavendish Street
Ashton-under-Lyne
Tameside
OL6 7SF

Telephone: 0161 344 1177

Email: 247null@rafacnull.mod.gov.uk

National website: raf.mod.uk/aircadets

Parade Nights

We parade twice weekly. You're welcome to come along on a parade night to see the squadron before making any commitment.

Evening Time Notes
Monday 19:00 – 21:30 Main parade night
Wednesday 19:00 – 21:30 Main parade night
Weekends Various Activities & exercises

Parade nights may vary during school holidays — contact us to confirm the current schedule before your first visit.

Squadron Finder – RAF Air Cadets ↗

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