Numbers at 2168 (Yeadon) Squadron were swelled recently when 12 Year 9 students from the squadron’s partner, Benton Park School, used the grounds for their camp on a Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award practice expedition.
The group supervised by teachers Sarah Dawson and Debbie Jones and Warrant Officer Wayne Yeadon of 2168 Squadron, who is cover supervisor at the school, spent two days walking in the Aireborough and Otley areas and camped overnight on Friday.
Yeadon Squadron service helper and Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award holder, Corporal Jofty Robinson of the RAF Police, gave the students a very entertaining and informative demonstration on field cooking.
During the evening the Benton Park students observed the many activities carried out at the squadron, including watching the band go through their paces before the forthcoming Regional Championships, and took part in the final parade.
Teacher Sarah Dawson said, ‘We are really grateful for all the support given to us by the squadron, particularly Warrant Officer Yeadon and Corporal Robinson. The students are really enjoying themselves and are impressed by the activities carried out at the squadron. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of the group apply to join the squadron.
The squadron’s partnership arrangement with Benton Park School is thought to be unique. There are proposals to develop the links further to benefit both the squadron and school. At present the squadron uses Benton Park School for sporting activities and formal parades. The Corps training curriculum is available via the Benton Park online learning facility. This means that if a cadet misses a training session, they are able to catch up quite easily. Additionally it allows cadets to work through the training materials at their own pace, which means that it is possible for cadets who join later than usual to achieve the BTEC in Aviation Studies Award or Certificate.
Squadron Warrant Officer Wayne Yeadon said, “We think that the development of this link is very important. At a meeting with Benton Park Head Teacher, David Foley a little while ago, we discussed some very exciting proposals. The Commandant of the Air Cadets, Air Commodore Ian Stewart is being kept informed about what is happening with the link”.
The squadron actively encourages partnership links and in addition to Benton Park School there are links with the Aviation Academy, Bradford Bulls Rugby League Club and 18 (Avon) Squadron, New Zealand Air Cadets. The Yeadon squadron is recruiting at present. Girls and boys aged 13 and above are invited to visit the Cadet Centre, Coney Park, Yeadon on Wednesday or Friday at 7pm to find out about the activities on offer.
