The Air Training Corps (ATC) was formed by Royal Warrant in 1941 and sprang from the Air Defence Cadet Corps, founded in 1938 by the Air League.
AIR n. mixture of oxygen, nitrogen etc surrounding the earth; aircraft operating there.
TRAINING n. bring or come to a desired standard of efficiency or condition.
CORPS n. military unit, organised body of people
Although initially formed to meet the needs of a nation at war, the Corps continues to thrive as it enters the 21st Century. There are now independent Air Cadet Organisations in many other countries throughout the World. Today it continues to thrive and helps a new generation of young people, aged 13 to 20, to find a positive purpose in life.

The Air Training Corps is part of the Air Cadet organisation (ACO) which also includes RAF Sections of the Combined Cadet Force (CCF). The Air Training Corps is a voluntary youth organisation supported by the Royal Air Force. Headquarters of the ATC are at RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire.

With almost 49,000 members, aged from 13 to 20 years, based around 920 Squadrons, the ATC is one of the country's premier youth organisations. The cadets are supported by a volunteer Staff of nearly 10,000 plus 5,000 Civilian Committee Members.

1To promote and encourage among young people a practical interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force.

2To provide training which will be useful in the Services and civilian life.

3To foster the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship.

The Air Training Corps is the largest operator of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme. Perhaps that's not so surprising when you learn that HRH Prince Philip is the ATC's Commodore-in-Chief, taking a keen interest in the organisation and its members.

Air Cadets get the opportunity of flying in RAF and commercial aircraft - many progressing to achieve Flying Scholarships and their Private Pilots Licence (PPL).

The Corps, which has charitable status, is not a recruiting organisation but many members do go on to have careers in the Armed Forces and civil aviation. Currently, between 40-50% of all RAF aircrew (pilots, navigators and NCO aircrew) and 47% of Officers are ex-Cadets.