In late September a group of 9 adult volunteers from Central and East Region Royal Air Force Air Cadets deployed to North Wales to undertake some much-needed staff development training.

As the country slowly returns to state where face to face cadet activity could resume it was recognised that having a team of suitably trained adult volunteers was key to the delivery of the cadet experience.

The provision of adventurous training allows volunteers and cadets to train outdoors with fewer restrictions in place, off road cycling is one of the core cadet adventure training activities.

Based at the National Air Cadets Adventure Training Centre at Fairbourne the volunteers undertook the Mountain Bike Instructors Award Scheme (MIAS), a two-day training and assessment course which is a recognised qualification for leading cadets on cycles off road.

The course training area included the popular trail centre at Coed y Brenin, with trails of various grades it proved a real challenge at times, however the fast-flowing nature of the trails was exhilarating.

The course was provided by a team of external instructors and the financial support provided by the Ulysses Trust enabled more adult volunteers to undertake the training.

Squadron Leader Peter Howlett said, “I am so pleased that we have been able to run this training course and the financial support given to us by the Ulysses Trust has allowed that training to be more accessible, ultimately improving the experience we can give to our cadets and adult volunteers”.

The course covered numerous skill areas including, bike control, trail assessment, mechanical problems, navigation, leadership and coaching.

The final gradings at the end of day two saw 6 Level 2 leaders, and 3 Level 1 Leaders appointed.

Civilian Instructor Debbie Allum said” completing this course has given me so much more confidence and I’m really looking forward to taking groups out and seeing them learn new skills”.

These successes will make a huge contribution to cadet training in the coming years, ensuring that the activity is carried out in a safe and proficient manner.