Other Staff

Other RAFAC Staff

It is not just Officer and SNCO's that make up the RAFAC staff; CI's, SI's, Padre's and the CWC are all CFAVs (Cadet Forces Adult Volunteers) too.

Civilian Instructors
Civilian Instructors (CI's) are the backbone of the RAFAC; they are a vital part of any Squadron, and lots of activities rely on their support. Although they do not wear a service uniform, they are expected to dress smartly and appropriately for the activity. In order to join, they must apply and undergo some training. The vast majority of RAFAC Officers and SNCO's will have spent time as a CI before 'going into uniform'.

Lapel pin worn by Civilian Instructors

Armband worn by Civilian Instructors

Service Instructors
Service Instructors (SI's) are members of any branch of the Armed Forces (RAF, RN, RM's or British Army) who choose to become a member of staff in the RAF Air Cadets. They must apply to become staff, and their service Officer Commanding must also approve their application. They wear their own service uniform when involved in cadet activities.

Padre/Chaplin
All Squadrons have an appointed Parade/Chaplin, who is usually of the Christian faith, however this will be dependant on the majority faith of the Squadron. Their jobs are varied, but can involve:

Providing pastoral support to Cadets on the Squadron
Offering guidance and leadership to cadets and members of staff on moral and spiritual matters
Enrolling Cadets after their Recruits Course (inc. signing the 3822)
Attend the annual chaplains’ conference within the area
A monthly visit to the Squadron to lead what is known as 'the Padre's hour'

Padre's Lapel and Scarf Pin

Civilian Welfare Committee
All Squadrons must have an appointed Civilian Welfare Committee, which CI's or any other member of the Squadron Staff (exc. the OC) may not be a member of. They are usually parents of Cadets and other organisations in the local community (eg. RAFA, RBL etc). The CWC is comprised of:

Chairperson
Treasurer
Secretary
Squadron OC
Padre
Other civilian Members

Note: The Chairperson, Treasurer and Secretary are all voted in by other Members of the Committee; the Squadron OC and Padre do not have voting rights. The CWC is in charge of handling the Squadron's funds, fundraising, helping cadets that might need financial support, assisting in recruitment and assist with local publicity. They must meet every quarter, and host an Annual General Meeting (AGM) where the appointed roles are selected. They are usually heavily involved in the planning and running of the Annual Squadron Dinner. CWC members can later apply to become 'Registered CWC'. In this role they are a midpoint between a CI and a normal CWC member.