Despite the postponement of Boris’ announcement to mark the end of COVID-19 restrictions in England back in June, the local 295 Witham and Rivenhall Squadron were hoping to return to face-to-face activity soon with the hope of also boosting their numbers.
CommunityAd caught up with Chair Sarah Cole to find out more about the squadron…
Can you inform readers of your own background with the Witham 295 Air Cadets, the history behind the group and what you enjoy most about being an integral part of the cadets?
I have been involved with 295 Squadron since 2017 when my daughters joined the Air Cadets. In 2018, I became a member of the Civilian Welfare Committee in 2018, was elected Vice-Chair in 2019 and last year when the Chair resigned, I took over the role.
During the Second World War in 1923 (Witham) Squadron Air Cadets was formed, the squadron became too large, and another squadron was formed – 2155 (Kelvedon) – there were approximately 150 cadets at this point. In around 1960, Witham squadron became a Detached flight of 276 (Chelmsford) Squadron. The Witham Detached Flight met at an old fire station but the cold, damp conditions meant that the unit could only be opened once a week until suitable accommodation was found. Unfortunately, no suitable accommodation could be found so the Detached flight had to close.
In 1970, an officer from 1207 (Maldon) Squadron re-opened a Witham unit in an old school building. In 1974 with 18 cadets, it became a Detached Flight of 158 (Braintree) Squadron. From 1974 to 2005 the detached flight once again increased in numbers and battled against many barriers – changing accommodation, a variety of Commanding Officers, burglary and flood to name a few! The unit was finally granted squadron status and was designated 295 (Witham and Rivenhall) Squadron on 25th January 2005.
Being a Witham resident means that I enjoy taking part in all the events that happen in the community and being able to get the Air Cadets involved is really satisfying.
How difficult has the past year been for you through the COVID-19 pandemic?
The squadron and cadets have been extremely resilient, since cadets closed due to COVID we continued with Virtual Parade nights where a range of activities and topics were covered – such as First Aid, map reading, Duke of Edinburgh route planning as well as fun nights where the whole family could get involved. As a Civilian Welfare Committee, we were hit hard as one of our big roles within the squadron is fundraising – being unable to hold any events ourselves or attend events has meant that our funds have been depleted. As soon as we can return to normal, we will be planning several events – not only to raise money but to give cadets and families the opportunity to socialise.
For readers who may be interested in bringing their child along, can you inform them what type of training is involved, what the Witham 295 cadets expect from you and how they can get in touch to enquire?
It’s important to know that we’re not a recruiting organisation for the Services (but it’s great if you decide you want to join later on). We’re not interested in anything but you and your potential, and will help you get the most from your experience as a cadet.
Worried about fitting in? Equality is a central part of the Air Cadets’ ethic. The cadet experience is open to everyone, so whatever your nationality, background or ability, whether you’re male or female, if you’re between 13, or at age 12 when beginning school year 8, and 17 years old you can join us. Our parade night are Mondays and Thursdays from 7:00pm till 9.30pm – with lots of weekend activities happening too.
If you are above 17 and still want to enjoy all of our activities and more, you could join as a volunteer.
Aside from flying, sports, target shooting, adventure training, camps, First Aid, music and great fun, you’ll soon find that being an air cadet is its own reward – you constantly see the benefits of your own efforts, building on your achievements and earning BTECs and Duke Of Edinburgh Awards. You’ll be expected to take part in as many of the activities we run as possible, but with what’s on offer you won’t need much persuading!
We have high standards to maintain as we are a ‘military’ youth organisation, and you’ll naturally take pride in your uniform (we supply that) and appearance. You’ll be well mannered and self-disciplined. You’ll be joining an organisation of which you’ll be very proud.
If you are interested in joining as either a cadet or an adult volunteer, then please email [email protected].
How much would you say being a cadet helps with the daily aspects of a person’s life such as discipline, assertive attitude etc?
Personally, I was slightly too old to become a cadet, but my daughter Megan said cadets has given her more self-confidence, friends and a great sense of achievement in her life – whilst at the cadets she has flown a plane, completed her Bronze D of E, played in the London and South East region band at both The Tower of London and at the Varsity Rugby match at Twickenham, visited the Menin Gate at Ypres and marched in the 100th remembrance parade in 2018 to name just a few! Megan is currently a Corporal in the squadron having been promoted last year.
As an adult volunteer, I get to interact with the cadets as well as help make decisions regarding the running of the squadron. On the Civilian Welfare Committee, we are responsible for all the squadron finances and have the final say on any purchases.
Doing fundraising events with the rest of the committee are good fun and as parents we always like to have fun too! Sometimes we get to join in with the activities and enjoy these as much as the cadets do! As Chair of the Squadron, I have to be quite assertive as I represent the squadron at numerous events – which I enjoy as it is great to meet other people involved in the organisation.
Away from the Air Cadets, what are your hobbies and interests and what do you enjoy most about living in Witham?
I work in a local infant’s school and really enjoy interacting with the children. When I am not chauffeuring my own children around, I like to spend time walking our family dog, spending time with the family and relaxing with friends.
I have lived in Witham all my life and have always been keen to support the local community – and that is one of the best things about living in Witham for me, although the town has grown quite a bit, there is a wonderful community to it and events are always well supported. Being able to attend these events as both a proud parent and a member of the Air Cadets is incredible, and I hope to continue to do it for a long while.