ATC v CCF(RAF)

The Air Training Corps and Combined Cadet Corps (RAF) work in partnership with each other. There is some friendly 'inter-service' rivalry, however, the membership criteria for the two organizations are dissimilar enough to prevent competition for recruits.

The ATC is the largest part of the ACO. Cadet members are drawn from local communities, as are their adult staff and civilian committee members. Membership is entirely voluntary.

The CCF(RAF) is the Royal Air Force Section of the Combined Cadet Force. The Combined Cadet Force is a separate organization from the Air Cadet Organization, however, the RAF Sections are managed through the ACO.

The CCF usually operates from Independent (Fee Paying) Schools and draws its Cadet membership from the schools pupils. Sometimes CCF membership is compulsory, however, this is being phased out in most instances in favour of voluntary membership. The adult staff are usually drawn from the schools staff, occasionally with specialist staff from outside of the school.

Both the ATC and CCF(RAF) take part in broadly the same range of activities and follow similar training programmes.

Further details as to the formation, history and make up of the two organizations can be found by following the appropriate links. Within this site you can click on the ATC or CCF crests to go to their section or follow the links form the main menu (Click on the ACO logo to return to the main menu or use the text link at the bottom of any page).

In the UK there are several 'military' sponsored youth organizations:

CCF Combined Cadet Force Must have an Army Section but may also have Naval and RAF Sections. Provides skills and leadership training related to the respective 'armed' Service. Does not provide Sports activities Usually found within Independent (Fee Paying) schools. Membership is normally restricted to school members. May have a compulsory element. Sponsored and supported by the British Army ACF Army Cadet Force Provides leadership skills and Fieldcraft training. Usually located within the community. Open, totally voluntary, membership. Sponsored and supported by the British Army. SCC Sea Cadet Corps Provides leadership skills and water based training. Usually located within the community. Open, totally voluntary, membership. Supported indirectly by the Royal Navy. Not sponsored as with the other 'military' youth organizations. ATC Air Training Corps Provides all of the above plus Flying, Gliding and MUCH more, including the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Usually located within the community. Open, totally voluntary, membership. Sponsored and supported by the Royal Air Force.